The Form RD 440-34 is a document officially endorsed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through its Rural Development sector. It serves as a formal option to purchase real property, which safeguards a buyer's exclusive and irrevocable right to buy specified land under certain conditions. With clauses that cover everything from payment terms to property inspections, this form plays a crucial role in rural property transactions, ensuring both parties are clear on their obligations and the terms of the sale. Ready to secure your piece of rural paradise? Click the button below to embark on filling out your Form RD 440-34.
The Form RD 440-34, authorized by the United States Department of Agriculture and the Farm Service Agency, plays a fundamental role in the acquisition of real property, particularly in rural areas. This form serves as an option to purchase real estate, detailing the agreement between a seller and a potential buyer. It outlines the terms under which the seller offers, and the buyer can opt to purchase the property described. The form is structured to facilitate transactions involving loans from government bodies such as the Rural Housing Service, Rural Utilities Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and the Farm Service Agency. Among its provisions, it includes the payment of a consideration sum, the exclusive rights granted to the buyer, conditions under which the purchase price includes certain payments, and obligations regarding title clearance and property condition. Moreover, it sets forth the option period, adjustment protocols for property damage before transfer, and requirements for termite infestation clearance and the functionality of waste disposal systems. The thoroughness of the form ensures both seller and buyer are well-informed of their rights and obligations, including the necessity of government loan approval for the transaction to proceed. Additionally, it highlights the necessity for compliance with state health requirements concerning water supply and waste disposal, reflecting the comprehensive nature of real estate transactions within the purview of rural development.
Form RD 440-34
Position 5
FORM APPROVED
(Rev. 02-05)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
OMB NO. 0575-0189
RURAL DEVELOPMENT
FARM SERVICE AGENCY
OPTION TO PURCHASE REAL PROPERTY
1 . In consideration of the sum of $
in hand paid and other valuable consideration, the
receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the undersigned (hereinafter called the ''Seller''), who covenants to be the owner thereof, hereby, for the Seller and the Seller's heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns, offers and agrees to sell and convey to
(Name and Address)
(hereinafter called the ''Buyer''), and hereby grants to the said Buyer the exclusive and irrevocable option and right to purchase, under
the conditions hereinafter provided, the following-described property, located in
County, State of
:
(Insert here full and complete legal description, including volume and page where recorded, of the property including any water rights and water stock being purchased.)
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information is 0575-0189. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 30 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.
The title to said property is to be conveyed free and clear of all encumbrances except for the following reservations,
exceptions and leases, and no others:
(insert here a full statement of all reservations, exceptions and leases, including in the case of leases, the date of the termination of the lease, the correct name(s) and address(es) of the lessee(s) and, if recorded, the place of recordation)
2. The option is given to enable the Buyer to obtain a loan made by the United States of America, acting through the
Rural
Housing Service;
Rural Utilities Service;
Rural Business-Cooperative Service;
Farm Service Agency, hereinafter called
the ''Government'' for the purchase of said property. It is agreed that the Buyer's efforts to obtain a loan constitute a part of the consideration for this option and any downpayment will be refunded if the loan cannot be processed by the Government.
3.
The total purchase price for said property is $
, said amount
includes
excludes the $
mentioned in paragraph 1.
4.The Seller agrees to pay all expenses of title clearance including, if required, abstract or certificate of title or policy of title insurance, continued down to the date of acceptance of this option and thereafter continued down to and including date of recordation of the deed from the Seller to the Buyer, costs of survey, if required, and attorney's fees; and the Seller agrees that, except as herein provided, all taxes, liens, encumbrances or other interests in third persons will be satisfied discharged, or paid by the Seller including stamp taxes and other expenses incident to the preparation and execution of the deed and other evidences of title. Title evidences will be obtained from persons and be in such form as the Government shall approve.
(Strike inapplicable language above or insert herein any different agreement regarding the paying of title clearance charges)
5.The Seller also agrees to secure for the Buyer, from the records of the Farm Service Agency, aerial surveys of the property when available, all obtainable information relating to allotments and production history and any other information needed in connection with the consideration of the proposed purchase of the property.
6.The Seller further agrees to convey said property to the Buyer by general warranty deed (except where the law provides otherwise for conveyances by trustees, officers of courts, etc.) in the form, manner and at the time required by the ''Government, conveying to the Buyer a valid, unencumbered, indefeasible fee-simple title to said property meeting all requirements of the Government; that the purchase price shall be paid at the time of recording such deed; and that said lands, including improvements, shall be delivered in the same condition as they now are, customary use and wear excepted.
7.Taxes, water assessments and other general and special assessments of whatsoever nature for the year in which the closing of the transaction takes place shall be prorated as of the date of the closing of the transaction, it being expressly agreed that for the purpose of such proration the tax year shall be deemed to be the calendar year. If the closing of the transaction shall occur before the tax rate is fixed, the apportionment of taxes shall be on the basis of the tax rate for the next preceding year applied to the latest assessed valuation.
(Insert here any different tax agreement)
8.This option may be exercised by the Buyer, at any time while the offer herein shall remain in force, by mailing, telegraphing or
delivering in person a written notice of acceptance of the offer herein to
at
, in the city of
,
County of
, State of
The offer herein shall remain irrevocable for a period of
in force thereafter until one ( 1 ) year from the date hereof unless earlier terminated by the Seller. The Seller may terminate
this offer at any time after the
months irrevocable period provided herein by giving to the Buyer ten
(10)days written notice of intention to terminate at the address of the Buyer. Acceptance of this option by the Buyer within ten (10) days after such notice is received by the Buyer shall constitute a valid acceptance of the option.
9.Loss or damage to the property by fire or from an act of God shall be at the risk of the Seller until the deed to the Buyer has been recorded, and in the event that such loss or damage occurs, the Buyer may, without liability, refuse to accept conveyance of title, or may elect to accept conveyance of title, in which case there shall be an equitable adjustment of the purchase price.
10.The Seller agrees that, irrespective of any other provision in this option, the Buyer, or the Buyer's assignees, may, if the option
is accepted, without any liability therefore refuse to accept conveyance of the property described herein if the foresaid loan cannot be
I
made or insured because of defects in the title to other land now owned by, or being purchased by, the buyer.
11.The Seller agrees to furnish, at Seller's expense, to the Buyer a certificate from a reliable firm certifying that the following described building(s) covered by this option (a) is now free of termite infestation and (b) either is now free of unrepaired termite damage or has suffered unrepaired termite damage which is specifically described in the certificate.
12.The Seller agrees to furnish. at the Seller's expense, to the Buyer evidence from the Health Department or a reliable and competent source that the waste disposal system for the dwelling is functioning properly, and the water supply for domestic use meets State Health Department requirements. This evidence must be in the Agency Office before a loan will be approved.
13.The Seller hereby gives the Government or its agents consent to enter on said property at reasonable times for the purpose of inspecting or appraising it, in connection with the making of a loan to purchase the property.
14.Insert here conditions peculiar to this particular transaction.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Seller and the Buyer have set their hands and seals this
of
.
WITNESSESS:
(Sellers Telephone Number)
day
(Seller) *
(Buyer) *
*(Indicate marital status of Seller as ''married'', ''legally separated'', ''unmarried'', after signature)
(over)
(For use if Seller is a corporation)
IN WITNESS WHEREOF. the Seller has caused its corporate name to be hereunto subscribed by its
President, and its duly attested corporate seal to be hereunto affixed by its
Secretary, at
on the
day of
(CORPORATE SEAL)
Name of Corporation
By:
Secretary.President.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Filling out the RD 440-34 form is a necessary step when choosing to engage with certain real estate transactions involving the sale of property within the parameters set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This process involves a detailed collection of information that both the buyer and seller must agree upon and record. The essential goal is to accurately document the agreement to purchase real estate, including the terms, conditions, and any obligations of both parties. Therefore, ensuring each step is followed correctly is crucial to the form's validity and the transaction's success.
Once all steps are completed, and the form is thoroughly checked for accuracy, it should be submitted to the appropriate USDA office. This submission will commence the formal review process, leading potentially to the approval of the transaction documented in the form. Always retain a copy for both the buyer's and seller's records.
What is the purpose of Form RD 440-34?
Form RD 440-34, issued by the United States Department of Agriculture, serves as an official document that provides an individual (the Buyer) with the exclusive and irrevocable option to purchase real property from another party (the Seller). This option is given to enable the Buyer to seek a loan from governmental services like the Rural Housing Service or the Farm Service Agency for the purpose of buying the specified property.
Who needs to complete Form RD 440-34?
This form should be completed by individuals looking to purchase real estate who plan to apply for funding through a United States government agency. The Seller offering the property will also need to provide detailed information on the form as it requires inputs from both the Buyer and the Seller.
What are the responsibilities of the Seller as outlined in the form?
The Seller agrees to several responsibilities, including paying all expenses for title clearance, obtaining aerial surveys of the property when available, and securing information related to allotments and production history. The Seller also commits to providing the Buyer with valid, unencumbered title upon sale, complying with terms related to taxes and assessments, and ensuring any described buildings are free of termite infestation or damage. Additionally, the Seller must allow the government or its agents access to the property for inspection or appraisal purposes.
Can the Buyer receive a refund on the downpayment?
Yes, according to the terms defined in the form, if the Buyer is unable to process the loan through the government for the purchase of said property, any downpayment made as part of the consideration for the option to purchase will be refunded. This ensures that the Buyer is not financially penalized if the loan cannot be obtained due to factors beyond their control.
What happens if there is loss or damage to the property before the sale is finalized?
Responsibility for any loss or damage to the property, whether by fire or acts of God, remains with the Seller until the deed to the Buyer has been recorded. If such an event occurs, the Buyer has the right to either refuse the conveyance of title, without any liability, or elect to accept the conveyance of title, with an equitable adjustment of the purchase price to reflect the damage or loss.
Filling out the Form RD 440-34, an option to purchase real property, involves several important steps and details that must be accurately addressed. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for individuals to make mistakes during this process, leading to potential delays or complications in their real estate transactions. Recognizing and avoiding these errors can streamline the purchase process and safeguard the interests of all parties involved.
One common mistake is neglecting to provide a complete legal description of the property, including water rights and water stock being purchased. This form requires detailed information to correctly identify the property in question, and omitting any aspect of the description can invalidate the agreement or create legal ambiguities down the line. It's crucial that all the information provided matches the legal documents and records exactly.
Another error involves the misinterpretation of financial terms, especially the total purchase price and the consideration paid. The form distinguishes between the sum paid upon signing and the total purchase price, which includes or excludes the initial payment. Confusion or inaccuracies in these amounts can lead to misunderstandings about the financial obligations of the buyer and seller.
Additionally, the responsibilities for expenses related to title clearance, property surveys, and attorney's fees must be clearly outlined. Failure to strike inapplicable language or insert any different agreement regarding the payment of these charges can lead to disputes about who is financially responsible for these costs. Precise communication and agreement on these points are imperative.
A critical oversight is the failure to accurately detail reservations, exceptions, and leases affecting the property. The form mandates a full statement of these elements, including the termination dates for leases and the correct names and addresses of lessees. Neglecting this step can result in the buyer unknowingly inheriting unwanted obligations or limitations on the property use.
Errors related to the option period and acceptance also present challenges. The form specifies a timeframe within which the buyer can exercise the option to purchase. Misunderstanding the irrevocable period or the process for indicating acceptance can lead to the expiration of the option without the buyer's realization, potentially causing them to lose the opportunity to purchase the property.
Another significant mistake is ignoring or incorrectly addressing the tax proration agreement, especially when closing occurs before the tax rate is set. The form allows for proration based on the previous year's rate applied to the latest assessed valuation. Confusion here can affect the final settlement amounts and financial expectations of both parties.
Detailed attention is also required for the conditions related to losses, damages, and title defects. The form provides options for the buyer in cases where the property suffers damage before closing or if title defects prevent the government loan from being processed. Misunderstandings about these provisions can lead to incorrect actions or assumptions in the wake of such events.
Failure to secure the necessary certificates regarding termite infestation and the functionality of the waste disposal and water supply systems is yet another hurdle. The seller is responsible for providing this evidence at their expense. Overlooking these requirements can delay or derail the transaction, especially if the loan approval is contingent on these certifications.
Lastly, inaccuracies in the signatures and acknowledgments sections, including the marital status of the seller and the proper execution of corporate seals, if applicable, can invalidate the document or at least question its legality. ensuring all signatures are properly rendered and all necessary information is accurately presented is crucial for the legality and validity of the form.
Understanding and meticulously addressing each section of the Form RD 440-34 is crucial to avoid these common mistakes. Each party must carefully review the document, possibly with legal assistance, to ensure that all provisions and obligations are correctly understood and met. This attention to detail safeguards the interests of both the buyer and seller and assists in the smooth execution of real property transactions.
When dealing with real estate transactions, especially in the realm of rural development or agriculture, several forms and documents often accompany the RD 440-34 form, also known as the "Option to Purchase Real Property" form. The RD 440-34 form sets the stage for a buyer to secure the option to purchase a specific piece of property under predetermined conditions. This form is fundamental in transactions involving the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development loans or grants. However, completing a real estate purchase or securing a loan involves more than just an option to purchase. Here are four other crucial forms and documents typically involved in this process:
Together, these documents play integral roles in the process of purchasing property, especially when government loans or grants are involved. They ensure transparency, legality, and fairness in the transaction, providing both the buyer and the lender with all necessary details to make informed decisions. While the RD 440-34 form marks the beginning of a buyer's journey to purchasing a piece of rural property, the completion and acceptance of additional forms and documents seal the deal, making the dream of ownership a reality.
The Real Estate Purchase Agreement (REPA) is similar to the RD 440-34 form. Like the RD 440-34 form, a REPA outlines the terms and conditions under which a piece of real estate will be sold, including the purchase price, property description, and responsibilities of both buyer and seller regarding expenses such as title clearance and surveys. Both documents are legally binding once signed by the parties involved and lay the foundation for transferring ownership of property.
The Option Agreement for Real Estate is another document that bears similarity to the RD 440-34 form. It grants an individual the right, but not the obligation, to purchase a property within a specified timeframe, mirroring the RD 440-34's provision that grants the buyer the option to purchase described property. Both include conditions that affect the option's viability, such as securing financing or satisfactory inspections, and specify a period during which the option remains valid.
The Land Sale Contract is akin to the RD 440-34 form in that it details the agreement between a buyer and seller for the purchase of land. Both documents specify the legal description of the property, purchase price, and terms of sale. However, the Land Sale Contract may maintain the seller's ownership of the property until the buyer completes payment, differentiating it from the RD 440-34’s emphasis on securing government loans for immediate purchase.
Residential Lease with an Option to Purchase is similar to the RD 440-34 form, but it is primarily a lease agreement that includes a clause allowing the lessee to purchase the property. Both documents provide a pathway to property ownership, though the Lease with an Option to Purchase emphasizes the leasing aspect before the purchase option is exercised. This differs from the RD 440-34, where the primary intent is outright purchase, facilitated through government loan assistance.
The Buyer Broker Agreement resembles the RD 440-34 form in its establishment of an exclusive relationship, but in this case, between a prospective buyer and a real estate agent or broker. Similar to the exclusivity of the option to purchase in the RD 440-34, this agreement outlines the broker’s obligations to the buyer and vice versa. While the Buyer Broker Agreement is focused on services leading to the identification and purchase of property, the RD 440-34 form directly facilitates the option to purchase a specific property.
The Quitclaim Deed, though different in purpose, shares some procedural likenesses with the RD 440-34 form. It is used to transfer any ownership interest the grantor may have in a property, without warranties, to a recipient. While the RD 440-34 form involves a detailed agreement to potentially purchase property with clear title contingencies, both documents are used in real estate transactions and require thorough descriptions of the property in question.
Owner Financing Mortgage Agreement parallels the RD 440-34 form through its facilitation of property purchase, but with direct financing from the seller rather than a traditional lender or government loan. Like the RD 440-34, it outlines the purchase price, property description, and repayment terms. However, it differs in that the seller extends credit directly to the buyer to finance the purchase, as opposed to the buyer securing a loan through governmental assistance as contemplated by the RD 440-34.
The Deed of Trust serves a similar purpose to the RD 440-34 form by playing a role in property transactions where a loan is involved. It involves three parties - the borrower, lender, and trustee - and serves as security for the loan by holding the property title until the loan is paid. While the RD 440-34 form outlines an option to purchase with considerations for obtaining a loan, the Deed of Trust directly involves the mechanics of loan repayment and property as collateral.
The Amendment to REPA (Real Estate Purchase Agreement) could be considered related to the RD 440-34 form by its function of modifying terms within an existing agreement. Amendments might address changes in purchase price, closing dates, or other conditions also found in the RD 440-34 agreement. Though an amendment itself is not an agreement to purchase, it directly impacts the terms under which a property may be bought or sold, similar to the option and terms negotiation in the RD 440-34.
The Property Disclosure Statement, while not a contract for purchase, shares relevance with the RD 440-34 form by providing crucial property information that may affect a decision to purchase. It requires the seller to disclose known issues with the property, which could impact the buyer's exercise of the option to purchase in the RD 440-34 form. Both documents ensure transparency and inform decision-making in real estate transactions.
When you're preparing to fill out the RD 440-34 Form, which is a form from the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development for an option to purchase real property, it's important to proceed with caution and thoroughness. Getting it right can smooth the path towards acquiring a piece of property, but mistakes can lead to delays or even financial losses. Here is a list of dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
Following these guidelines will help ensure that your RD 440-34 Form is filled out correctly and completely, paving the way for a smoother transaction process. Missteps in filling out this form can delay or disrupt the property purchase option, so take the time to do it right.
When it comes to the RD 440-34 form, known as the "Option to Purchase Real Property" form provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), there are several misconceptions that people might have. Understanding the form accurately is crucial for both sellers and buyers involved in a real estate transaction. Here are some common misconceptions clarified:
It’s only for agricultural land: While the USDA primarily supports rural and agricultural development, this form can also be used for purchasing rural properties that are not exclusively for agricultural use.
It’s too complex for individuals: Despite being a formal government document, the RD 440-34 is designed to be comprehensive. With proper guidance, individuals can understand and complete the process effectively.
It guarantees loan approval: This form is simply an option to purchase agreement and does not guarantee that a loan for purchasing the property will be approved by the USDA or any associated agency.
It’s only for first-time buyers: This misconception might stem from many of USDA’s programs targeting first-time homeowners. However, the RD 440-34 form deals with property transactions that can involve buyers and sellers of any experience level.
No downpayment refund if loan is denied: Contrary to this belief, the form clearly states that any downpayment will be refunded if the loan cannot be processed by the government, offering protection to the buyer.
All title clearance expenses are the buyer’s responsibility: The seller agrees to pay all expenses of title clearance among other fees, contrary to the belief that these costs fall solely on the buyer.
The form is only valid for a short period: The option to purchase is irrevocable for a specified period, which provides ample time for the buyer to secure financing and make informed decisions.
It only applies to properties without encumbrances: The form allows for the title to be conveyed free and clear of all encumbrances, except those specifically listed. This means that properties with certain encumbrances can still be sold using this form, as long as they are disclosed.
Clearing up these misconceptions is vital for individuals involved in transactions using the RD 440-34 form. Understanding its provisions ensures that all parties are adequately protected and informed throughout the process.
When completing the RD 440-34 form, a document used for the option to purchase real estate through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), it's important to keep the following key points in mind:
By following these guidelines, parties can ensure a thorough and legally sound agreement when engaging with the RD 440-34 form for the option to purchase real estate through the USDA.
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