The Washington Contract for the Lease and Purchase of Real Estate — Purchase by date or leave is a legally binding agreement that outlines the terms and conditions for both the lease and potential purchase of a property in Washington state. This contract provides clear instructions on when the tenant has the option to purchase the property by a specific date or choose to terminate the lease. The contract is designed to protect the interests of both the landlord and the tenant. It ensures that the tenant has the opportunity to buy the property within the specified period while providing the landlord with assurance that the property will either be sold or the lease will continue. There are two common types of Washington Contracts for the Lease and Purchase of Real Estate — Purchase by date or leave: 1. Lease with Option to Purchase: This type of contract allows the tenant to lease the property for a specific period, typically one to three years, with the option to purchase the property at a predetermined price within that time frame. The tenant pays an option fee, which is typically non-refundable, to secure the purchase option. If the tenant decides not to purchase the property by the specified date, they may terminate the lease without any further obligations. 2. Lease with Right of First Refusal: This type of contract grants the tenant the opportunity to match any offer received by the landlord from another potential buyer before the property is sold to that buyer. The tenant is given the right of first refusal and can choose to either purchase the property at the offered price or decline the offer. If the tenant declines, the landlord is then free to sell the property to the third party. Both types of contracts provide flexibility for the tenant and give them the chance to assess the property, its market value, and their own financial situation before committing to the purchase. It also allows the landlord to maintain a steady income through the lease agreement while keeping open the possibility of a future sale. When entering into a Washington Contract for the Lease and Purchase of Real Estate — Purchase by date or leave, it is crucial for both parties to seek legal advice and thoroughly understand the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement. This ensures a fair and transparent transaction, protecting the rights and interests of all parties involved.