What Should Ohio Buyers Review Before Signing a Purchase Agreement
The agreement allocates more than price
An Ohio purchase agreement should be reviewed for the complete transaction it creates. Confirm the parties, property, included items, payment terms, and signature authority. Section 1335.05 addresses writing requirements for specified real-estate agreements. Do not assume that a signed standard form leaves all important issues open for later negotiation.
Read contingencies as procedures
Financing, inspection, appraisal, sale-of-another-property, and title provisions may have different deadlines and notice requirements. Identify what must happen, who must act, and what remedy follows. A concern about a condition does not automatically create a cancellation right outside the contract and applicable law.
Review title, possession, and money at risk
Confirm the promised deed and title evidence, permitted exceptions, treatment of liens, earnest money, tax allocations, and possession date. Clarify casualty risk and any agreement allowing occupancy before or after closing. A financing approval or favorable inspection does not independently resolve title or contract obligations.
Resolve the questions before commitment
Give counsel the full agreement, addenda, disclosures, and any proposed changes. Identify deadlines already running and promises made outside the document. If an issue requires a specific condition, ensure the written language addresses it. Keep accepted versions and delivery records so the parties can determine which terms govern rather than relying on an informal summary.
Related Ohio guidance
- Do You Need a Real Estate Lawyer to Buy a House in Ohio?
- What Happens If a Title Search Reveals a Lien?
Legal references
Discuss your next step
Discuss your Ohio real estate matter with McCalla Law. Call 614-702-1211 or request a consultation. Send only a brief, nonconfidential description initially. This article provides general legal information and does not create an attorney-client relationship.
