If your home has been on the market for a reasonable amount of time and you received one offer, it may not be the ideal sum that you’re looking for. Rather than accept the offer, it’s wise to see if a nearby home sold for a substantially higher price. While there are many situations in which it’s perfectly legal to reject a buyer’s offer, real estate law does provide buyers with significant protections of their own.

When Can You Reject an Offer on Your Home?

Receiving Multiple Offers

If demand is high, you may receive multiple offers for the property, some of which could be higher than your initial asking price. In this situation, it’s legal to accept the best offer and reject the others.

You Changed Your Mind About Selling

Circumstances change, and many sellers may eventually decide against moving even after going through the entire process. Up until the contract is signed, you have the right to change your mind and stay in your home. However, if you already negotiated and signed a sales agreement, speak to a real estate law attorney before backing out of the transaction.

When Is Rejecting an Offer Illegal?

While sellers enjoy broad discretion when deciding which offers to accept, the Fair Housing Act prohibits discriminating against buyers on the basis of their protected class. For instance, you may not reject an offer because of the buyer’s national origin, race, religious affiliation, or family status. Real estate law in Boston extends these protections to sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, gender expression, and age. 

If you’re putting a house on the market, a skilled attorney will guide you through the process and help you avoid potential complications. Because they focus exclusively on real estate law, Bernardini Law P.C. has the tools to provide detailed insight and personalized attention to buyers and sellers alike throughout the Greater Boston area. Visit their website for an overview of their real estate law services and call (978) 794-5525 to schedule a consultation.