Glossary

Option Agreement

A contract giving a buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy — binding you while leaving them free to walk away.

An option agreement is inherently asymmetric: it gives the buyer flexibility while removing yours. A long inspection or due-diligence period in a standard purchase contract functions similarly. Be cautious of long option agreements with little or no earnest money — the buyer is securing the right to buy without taking meaningful risk.

Want a plain-language review of your situation?

A Home Transition Review gives you clear options — including the ones no buyer will volunteer.

Get a free review