Legal Documents Required When Buying a Property

What Are the Required Legal Documents?

• Purchase Agreement: This is a legally binding document that outlines the terms of the sale, such as the purchase price, closing date, and any contingencies that need to be met before the sale can be completed.
• Deed: This is a document that transfers ownership of the property from the seller to the buyer. The deed should be signed by both parties and recorded with the local county recorder's office or registry of deeds.
• Title Insurance: This is a type of insurance that protects the buyer and the lender in case there are any issues with the title to the property, such as liens or ownership disputes.
• Mortgage Documents: If the buyer is financing the purchase with a mortgage, they will need to sign several documents, including a promissory note, a mortgage deed, and a Truth in Lending disclosure.
• Homeowners Association (HOA) Documents: If the property is part of an HOA, the buyer will need to review and sign the HOA documents, which typically include the bylaws, covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs), and any applicable rules and regulations.
• Closing Disclosure: This is a document that outlines all of the costs and fees associated with the sale, including the down payment, closing costs, and any prepaid expenses.

It is important to review all of these documents carefully before signing them, and to seek the advice of a real estate attorney if you have any questions or concerns. Additionally, it may be necessary to obtain additional documents or conduct additional due diligence depending on the specific circumstances of the transaction.