Option to buy land and property

About this agreement

Option agreements are unusual documents in that it is generally the buyer that proposes the terms and sells the deal to the property owner. The buyer therefore has the problem in deciding how far to push for terms. Sometimes a long legal document can be a hurdle to get the deal signed quickly.

This is an option agreement to buy real property - land and/or buildings - specifically drawn to be short and simple, for situations where it is important not to present the other party with a full legal agreement that he may worry about.

This document does create a legally binding agreement, but does not tie up the loose ends as our other versions do, and does not offer as much protection for the buyer from the unexpected.

It is, however, short, written in plain English and therefore easy to understand.

If simplicity and ensuring minimal friction with the other side are crucial, use this document rather than one of our other property option agreements.

When to use this option agreement

The document is suitable for both:

• a developer wishing to secure a ‘right to buy’ on real property subject to a future event
• a land or property owner looking to sell an option to a potential buyer

You will use this agreement to secure land with a view to your working to enhance its value before any event.

Examples are:

• planning permission has been granted
• you have found a tenant or sub-buyer
• a land or building survey has been completed

The document also includes a template notice of exercise letter, to be used by a buyer to exercise the option before the expiry date stated within the agreement.

Option agreement application and features

• Sets out a clear and logical pathway for exercise of the option
• Short and simple: all variables are clear and in one place
• Suitable for a variety of land types and situations
• Includes an exercise letter template
• User friendly: includes invaluable user notes to guide you through to successful execution

Agreement contents

• Carefully and simply defined terms
• All variable matters in one place for ease of editing
• The specific data on money and timing and the exercise of your option
• Seller's warranties on matters you need to have clear before you commit
• The essence of the agreement
• That the agreement may be assigned by the buyer
• A separate draft letter giving notice to exercise the option