Generally, yes. The AIR purchase and sale agreement form is well-drafted and does not substantially favor either the buyer or the seller. As a result, it is frequently used for the purchase of real estate in California.
There are many advantages to using the AIR purchase and sale agreement. Brokers, lawyers, buyers, and sellers are familiar with the form. It is therefore much easier for all parties involved to read through the contract and understand the terms to which each party is agreeing.
If lawyers are hired to represent the parties, less time is required for the parties to revise and negotiate the terms of the purchase agreement. This frequently results in opening escrow quicker, and less attorneys’ fees negotiating the purchase and sale agreement.
Some attorneys for sellers prefer not to use the AIR purchase and sale agreement because they contend it does not have the protections for sellers that are often found in custom purchase agreements. Here are three examples of reasons why some sellers’ counsel contend the AIR purchase and sale agreement is too friendly to buyers:
Although the AIR purchase and sale agreement does not contain certain provisions that provide additional protection to sellers, these provisions can be added in an addendum.
If the seller’s primary concern is obtaining a final purchase agreement that is more favorable to seller, and the seller is willing to endure an additional round or two of negotiations and some additional attorneys’ fees to achieve that objective, a custom form may be more appropriate.
In a subsequent article, I will suggest areas of the AIR purchase and sale agreement that sellers may wish to revise.
Do you use the AIR purchase and sale agreement? Which provisions do you modify? Post your comments or questions below.