Know What You're Signing Before You Sign It

Real estate contracts are binding the moment both parties execute them — and the terms buried in the fine print can cost you far more than you expect if they go unread.

What a Contract Review Actually Covers

A real estate agreement is not a formality. It sets the price, the timeline, the contingencies, the default remedies, and dozens of conditions that determine what happens when something goes wrong. We read every clause with you, not after the fact.

 

A thorough review addresses:

 

  • Purchase price, deposit structure, and financing contingencies
  • Inspection rights, repair obligations, and as-is provisions
  • Title conditions and what the seller is — and isn't — warranting
  • Closing date flexibility and what triggers a default
  • Riders and addenda that modify the standard form terms
  • Seller disclosure obligations under New York law

When Should You Have a Contract Reviewed?

Before you sign — not after. Once a contract is executed, your options narrow considerably. Buyers and sellers who bring an attorney in at the offer stage have the most room to negotiate language, request modifications, and walk away cleanly if the terms don't hold up.

 

If you're already under contract and something doesn't look right, a review can still clarify your position and identify whether you have grounds to renegotiate or exit before closing.

Risks a Review Can Surface Before They Become Problems

Most contract disputes don't start at the closing table. They start weeks or months earlier, when a term was misunderstood or a contingency was waived without fully understanding the consequence.

 

Common issues we identify during review:

 

  • Contingency deadlines that are shorter than standard and easy to miss
  • Financing clauses that don't adequately protect the buyer if a loan falls through
  • Inspection waiver language that eliminates the right to negotiate repairs
  • Title exceptions that could limit future use or resale of the property
  • Ambiguous possession dates that create overlap between buyer and seller
  • Liquidated damages provisions that cap the seller's exposure in ways that favor them

Frequently Asked Questions About Contract Review in New York

  • Do I need an attorney to review a real estate contract in New York?

    New York does not legally require attorney representation in every real estate transaction, but it is strongly recommended. Unlike many states, New York real estate contracts are typically prepared by attorneys rather than agents, and the terms can vary significantly from deal to deal. Having your own attorney review the contract before you sign ensures someone is looking out for your interests specifically.

  • How long does a contract review take?

    In most cases, we can complete a review and provide you with a summary of key terms, concerns, and recommended modifications within one to two business days. If your timeline is tighter, contact us directly and we'll do our best to accommodate.

  • Can you review a contract after I've already signed?

    Yes. If you are under contract and have concerns about specific terms or obligations, a review can still help you understand your position. Depending on what the contract says and where you are in the timeline, there may still be options to address issues before closing.

  • What's the difference between contract review and full closing representation?

    Contract review focuses specifically on the agreement itself — reading the terms, identifying risks, and advising on modifications before you sign. Full closing representation covers the entire transaction from contract through closing, including title review, lien searches, document preparation, and attending the closing on your behalf. We offer both, and many clients start with a review and continue with full representation.

Ready to Have Your Contract Reviewed?

Contract review is one step in a transaction that has several moving parts. We also handle residential closings for buyers and sellers across Westchester County, and our commercial real estate practice covers purchase, sale, and lease transactions for business clients.

 

Whether you need a standalone review or full representation through closing, we can handle both.