Florida Real Estate Broker ExaminationReal Estate Law and RegulationsEasy

A Florida real estate broker is drafting a purchase agreement for a buyer client. The property is located in an area known to have a high water table, and the buyer is concerned about potential flooding. The broker includes a clause stating that the contract is contingent upon the buyer obtaining flood insurance at a premium not exceeding $1,500 per year. This type of clause is best described as:

  1. AA specific performance clause.
  2. BA disclaimer clause.
  3. CA contingency clause.
  4. DA 'time is of the essence' clause.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. A contingency clause.

A contingency clause makes the validity of the contract dependent on the fulfillment of a specified condition or event. In this case, the condition is obtaining flood insurance at a certain premium.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. A specific performance clause allows a party to sue to force the other party to fulfill the contract terms.
  • B. A disclaimer clause attempts to limit liability or disavow a warranty.
  • D. A 'time is of the essence' clause emphasizes that contractual deadlines must be strictly met.

Contingency Clause

A provision in a contract that makes the contract's validity or a party's obligation dependent on the occurrence or non-occurrence of a specified event or condition.

  • Protects a party from unforeseen circumstances.
  • Must be clearly stated in the contract.
  • Failure to meet a contingency can allow contract termination without penalty.

Memory trick: Clauses are 'pieces' of the contract puzzle.

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