Investors United : : Ask Ian Blog

A well-written real estate contract of sale is like a Picasso. Simple, yet complex. Just as a painting speaks for the artist and conveys meaning to viewers, a real estate contract speaks for the parties and directs agents, the title company, lawyers, and perhaps a judge in a court of law.

The “Skinny Contract” I have been using to control millions of dollars in real estate over the last 30 years is a simple, one-page document. The “standard” Realtor contract of sale is 40 pages intended to protect homeowners, but largely unnecessary scribble-scrabble for use by investors. Though “skinny,” every one of my contract clauses is as deliberate as a brushstroke.

To paint your contract for real estate investment profit, you need to learn the right techniques. You need a palette of clauses to choose from, mastery over every word, and understanding of what each is designed to accomplish. With practice and guidance from a master, your contract of sale can be a valuable work of art – a product of your creativity, your imagination, your motivation, your inspiration. It can be your gateway to equity and cash profit.

As you practice your contract “painting” lessons, consider more…