Work through the contract with your attorney
Your attorney’s review is where the terms need to match what you believe you are buying. Get the explanation before you sign, while questions can still be addressed.
Bring the whole situation to the attorney
Share the proposed terms, inspection findings, financing plan, intended use, and any purchase that depends on selling another property. Identify promised repairs and items you expect to remain. Something that sounds minor in conversation can matter in the contract.
When selecting an attorney, ask who will handle the file, what the fee covers, how questions are answered, and who will attend closing. Provide documents promptly and keep contact details for the person managing deadlines.
Review the terms that affect your decision
Ask your attorney to explain the property description, included items, deposit, financing contingency, title provisions, condition requirements, closing date, and possession arrangements. Discuss any work, occupancy, or use that needs further verification.
There is no automatic statewide three-day attorney-review cancellation period to rely on for a standard New York home purchase. Ask when your actual agreement becomes binding and what rights it provides. Do not substitute an online timeline for the signed documents.
Understand the deposit and deadlines
Ask who holds the deposit, how to deliver it safely, and when it can be released. A financing problem does not automatically mean the deposit is refunded, and every delay does not automatically mean forfeiture. The terms, notices, facts, and applicable law matter.
Put the actual financing deadline and required notices in a calendar. If a deadline is at risk, tell the attorney immediately. Extensions need proper agreement; silence or an informal assurance is not a reliable substitute. Ask how the stated closing date operates in your contract.
Resolve property questions while there is time
Ask which title, survey, municipal, and permit matters need review. Additions, conversions, extra kitchens, open permits, liens, and occupancy questions can require different records or professional advice. A seller’s description is not the same as a documented approval.
Before signing, summarize your understanding back to the attorney: what you must pay, what must happen next, what could stop the purchase, and what deadlines protect your options. Save the fully executed contract and every later amendment in one place.
Have your attorney write down the deadlines and the exact action required if financing or another condition is not met.
Your next step
Use page 10 of the workbook to record:
- Attorney and primary contact; scope and quoted fee
- Contract deposit, holder, and verified delivery arrangements
- Financing and other deadlines; notice requirements
- Property-record questions, promised work, and possession terms
Want to talk through your situation?
I work with buyers across western and central Suffolk County. Bring your questions, whether you are planning ahead or already looking.
Ask Tom a questionHow I help buyersEducational guidance by Thomas Brady, Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, Vintage American Realty, LLC. Updated September 11, 2026. Your lender, attorney, insurer, and other qualified professionals should confirm the requirements for your purchase.