I bought something the other day. It came with an instruction manual all wrapped up in a sealed package. The sticker on the package read, "ATTENTION: By opening the contents of the package you are agreeing to the terms and conditions contained herein."
OK. But I can't read the terms and conditions unless I open the package so I can't read it ahead of time. Hmmm. I opened the package and looked at the terms and conditions only to realize, there is no possible way I could read and understand it all in the time it took to open the package in the first place. But I *agree* anyway based on consumer confidence.
Oddly, this got me thinking about Buyers, Sellers and Renters who sign real estate contracts without really being able to absorb the entire document. Of course, we do our best to explain each paragraph of the contracts to our clients. But seriously, how much of that information do you think is really being absorbed in the amount of time you have?
The best thing you can do when having clients agree to purchase contracts, addendums, lease agreements, etc., is to provide those documents to them ahead of time, even in sample format. This gives them ample time to review and read before signing.
If there isn't time to do this, ask clients to thoroughly read the contract later and write down any questions. If there are questions and concerns, be patient. Remember, people are agreeing to terms and conditions of contracts based on confidence in you.
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