Can I back out of this deal with my earnest money?
Started by FrustratedBuyer
about 7 years ago
Posts: 0
Member since: Oct 2018
Discussion about
The seller claimed that he was the sole owner of the property, but his deceased wife, whose estate he had not settled, even after 5 years, still owns half. They now need to settle the estate, but this can take 6 weeks extra in the best case - and an unknown amount of time in the worst, if heirs choose to dispute. The uncertainty is something I don't want to deal with. If I back out of the deal now, will I get my earnest money deposit back?
This is a question for your lawyer as it depends on the contact you signed.
Even the most rudimentary purchase contract ought to give you termination rights. But i fear you were under-represented if you are asking such questions here.
I can't give you legal advice, but what was the closing date in the contract? Once that closing date passes, usually either side can call for "Time is of the essence" to kick in and force a "close or be in default of the contract" situation.
Most contracts would protect you in the case the seller misrepresented ownership. This is pretty standard stuff. But please ask your attorney!
In most contracts the seller represents they are the sole owner with the full rights to sell the property. As Squid said, this is pretty standard. Please ask your attorney to confirm.