When a buyer’s proposal to purchase a residential property is formally agreed upon by the seller, the property transitions to a pending sale status. This signifies that both parties have reached a consensus on the price, terms, and conditions of the sale, contingent upon factors such as inspections, financing, and legal clearances. For instance, if a prospective homeowner submits a bid on a bungalow and the current owner agrees to the proposed terms, that bungalow is then considered to be under contract.
This stage represents a significant milestone in the real estate transaction process. It provides a degree of security to both the potential buyer and the seller, indicating a serious intent to complete the transaction. Historically, this point was often celebrated with a handshake, solidifying the verbal agreement before the formal paperwork was finalized. The security afforded by this agreement allows for the allocation of resources towards appraisals, surveys, and further due diligence with a level of confidence that the sale will proceed.