When it comes to real estate transactions, it’s common to hear terms like agreement and sale deed. While they may sound similar, these two documents have distinct differences that are important to understand. Here’s everything you need to know about agreement vs sale deed in real estate.
Agreement
An agreement, sometimes called a sale agreement or sale contract, is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of a real estate transaction between a buyer and a seller. The agreement typically includes details such as the purchase price, payment terms, timeline for completion, and any contingencies or conditions that need to be met before the sale can be finalized.
One of the key aspects of an agreement is that it’s a binding contract between the two parties. Once both parties have signed the agreement and any necessary payments have been made, the transaction moves forward to the next stage, which is typically the execution of a sale deed.
Sale Deed
A sale deed, also called a conveyance deed, is a legal document that transfers ownership of a property from a seller to a buyer. It’s essentially the proof of ownership for the buyer, and it’s critical for completing the transaction. The sale deed typically includes information such as the buyer’s and seller’s names, the property address, purchase price, and any other relevant details about the property.
Unlike an agreement, a sale deed is a final document that can’t be modified after it’s executed. Once the sale deed is signed and registered with the relevant authorities, ownership of the property officially passes to the buyer.
Key Differences
The main difference between an agreement and a sale deed is that an agreement is a preliminary document that outlines the terms of the transaction, while a sale deed is the final document that transfers ownership of the property. An agreement is not enough to complete the transaction on its own; a sale deed must be executed and registered to finalize the sale.
Another important difference is that an agreement is a contract that can be modified or terminated if certain conditions aren’t met, while a sale deed is a final, binding document that cannot be changed once it’s executed.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between an agreement and a sale deed is essential for anyone involved in a real estate transaction. While they may seem similar, they serve distinct purposes, and both are critical for completing a sale. If you’re buying or selling a property, make sure you’re familiar with both documents and understand what’s required to finalize the transaction.