Patrick

Great answers so far -- but let me add my 2 cents worth! From what I have seen of some of the contracts provided to agents in other states by their associations or brokers, the one used here is Maryland is far more complete in covering details and defining expectations on both sides. And some of my clients, moving here from states where agents prepare a statement of intent which then goes to attorneys for each side to become a contract, have found that issues which weren't in dispute become so when two more parties get involved. Of course, that can happen here with agents, too.

It's important that you know that Maryland real estate agents may not act as attorneys -- in other words, they may not interpret the contract. However, they should go through the contract language with you so you know what you are signing. If you have any questions, feel unsure about what you are signing, or have an agent push the papers in front of you and say, "just sign here," you should get an attorney who actively practices real estate law here. You might want to ask your agent to go through a blank contract with you before you find your house here so that you'll understand it when you're ready to make an offer. - Mon Oct 6 2008, 11:37