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OREF 073 + C-520 – Assignment & Assumption of Leases
July 9, 2025
When it comes to purchasing investment property, understanding the fine print can make all…
Why Using the Correct OREF Sale Agreement Matters
July 3, 2025
When preparing an offer, always confirm you’re using the Oregon Real Estate Forms (OREF) Sale…
Presenting Offers Promptly: A Legal Obligation for Oregon Agents
July 3, 2025
Q: Can a seller’s agent say that offers will not be reviewed over the weekend?...
10 Things to Look for When Reviewing an Offer
June 30, 2025
Received an offer for your client? A careful review ahead of time can prevent problems…
List with Confidence: Know Your Sale Agreement Before Offers Roll In
June 26, 2025
Before listing a property, it is helpful to review the sale agreement likely to be…
OREF 060 – Contingency Removal Addendum
June 26, 2025
Contingencies are a normal part of any transaction—but removing them shouldn’t be complicated. This form…
Thinking Hourly? What to Consider Before Using an Hourly Rate in Buyer Representation Agreements.
June 26, 2025
Q: In Section 5(a) of the Buyer Representation Agreement, can I list an hourly rate…
License Disclosure Required: What Oregon Agents Must Know When Selling Their Own Property
June 18, 2025
Remember, when a real estate agent is buying or selling their own property, the Oregon…
When does the Lead-Based Paint Contingency Period Begin?
June 18, 2025
Q: If my buyer has not waived the Lead-based Paint contingency and the seller delivers…
OREF 103 – Advisory Regarding Title Insurance
June 12, 2025
Let’s be honest—title insurance probably isn’t something your clients talk about over dinner. It often…
Real Estate Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All: Local Rules Matter
June 5, 2025
When working with agents from outside Oregon, remember that real estate rules vary widely, even…
HOA Document Delivery: Why OREF 023 Matters
June 5, 2025
Q: As a means of delivering the required HOA documents to my buyer, the listing…
Listing Vacant Land: Do You Need OREF 019?
May 29, 2025
Q: I’m preparing to list a vacant lot for sale. Is OREF 019—Vacant Land Disclosure…
FIRPTA Disclosure: Protecting Buyers and Sellers
May 29, 2025
When listing a property, confirm the seller understands FIRPTA and whether they’re considered a “foreign…
Termination Protocol: Using The Right Forms to End a Transaction Cleanly
May 15, 2025
Make sure to properly document the reason for terminating a transaction. Most termination reasons are…
Understanding “Efforts of Buyer’s Agent” in Representation Agreements
May 15, 2025
Q: The Buyer Representation Agreement says the buyer will owe a fee to the buyer’s…
OREF 048 – Seller Contributions Addendum
May 8, 2025
Seller contributions might be part of the original deal, but what happens if things shift…
Why We Still Have a Bill of Sale Even Though Section 2.2 of the Sale Agreement Covers Personal Property
May 1, 2025
Q: Since Section 2.2—Personal Property of the Sale Agreement includes a section for identifying personal…
Reminder: Explain Buyer Impact When Seller Contributions Fall Short
May 1, 2025
It’s important to confirm the buyer understands that if the seller agrees to contribute toward…
Looking to stand out? Strengthen your negotiation skills—it’s the key to helping clients achieve their goals!
April 24, 2025
Do you know that a big part of the reason a buyer or seller hires…
Do Non-Certified Woodstoves in Outbuildings Need to Be Removed?
April 24, 2025
Q: I’m preparing to list a property with a certified woodstove in the house and…
OREF 050A + 050B – Buyer Representation Agreement Addendum + Early Termination
April 24, 2025
Making changes to a Buyer Representation Agreement? Or maybe it’s time to bring it to…
Your Title and Escrow Partners Offer More Than You Think
April 17, 2025
Title and escrow companies offer real estate agents many services beyond just title and escrow….
Understanding Oregon’s Rule on Working Within Your Expertise
April 17, 2025
Q: I’ve heard that Oregon statute requires agents not to work outside their area of…
OREF C-519 – Tenant Estoppel Certificate
April 10, 2025
In the world of investment properties, especially commercial ones—nobody likes surprises. That’s where the Tenant…
Commission Sharing vs. Seller Paying Both Agents: What’s the Difference?
April 3, 2025
Q: What is commission sharing, as opposed to the seller paying both their agent and…
Helping Buyers with Lease Options? Don’t Forget OREF 085
April 3, 2025
If your buyer is interested in purchasing property under a lease option agreement, remember that…
Under OREF 001 Section 6: Who Pays the Appraisal Reinspection Fee for Missing Water Heater Straps?
March 27, 2025
Q: Under Section 6 of OREF 001—Residential Real Estate Sale Agreement, sellers must pay appraisal…
Lock In Referral Fees: Make OREF 107 Your Go-To Agreement
March 27, 2025
Remember that OREF provides a referral fee agreement. If you refer a buyer or seller…
OREF 022A/B Repair Deadlines: Don’t Overlook Appraisal Requirements
March 20, 2025
When negotiating the deadline for repairs in OREF 022A or 022B—Buyer/Seller Repair Addenda, consider whether…
Do I Need a Buyer Rep Agreement for a Friend Tagging Along on Showings?
March 20, 2025
Q: My buyer has asked if they can bring a friend to property showings. Do…
OREF 050 – Buyer Representation Agreement
March 13, 2025
Big News! The OREA has updated its rules to align with HB 4058, which means…
Smart lights, voice assistants & more—what other features are considered ‘smart’?
March 6, 2025
Q: Section 22 of OREF 001 – Residential Real Estate Sale Agreement requires the seller…
How Section 32 of OREF 001 Helps Calm Buyers Earnest Money Jitters
March 6, 2025
If your buyer is feeling nervous about depositing earnest money and wondering if it is…
Non-Member MLS Showings: Are Written Commission Confirmations Still Required?
February 27, 2025
Q: I’ve always been told that I shouldn’t show property exclusively listed in an MLS…
Sellers’ agents, don’t forget to document the offer delivery to your seller!
February 27, 2025
As a seller’s agent, remember to complete the delivery documentation located just above the seller’s…
Personal property vs. fixtures in OREF Sale Agreements—what’s the difference?
February 20, 2025
Q: What is the difference between “Personal Property” and “Fixtures” in the OREF Sale Agreements?…
Buyer Sale Agreement Assignments Explained: Why Seller Consent Matters and How to Document It
February 20, 2025
OREF Sale Agreements require seller consent for buyers to transfer their rights or obligations. The…
OREF C-514 – Letter of Intent
February 13, 2025
A letter of intent (LOI) is your secret weapon for kicking off a commercial property…
Why Completing Every Section of the Sale Agreement Is Essential
February 6, 2025
Buyer’s agents should complete all sections of a sale agreement at the time the offer…
Collapsed Septic on Vacant Land: Should You Mark ‘Yes’ & Include OREF 081?
February 6, 2025
Q: I am working with a buyer preparing to write an offer on a piece…
Closing ‘On or Before’ the Deadline: When & Why You Should Extend in Writing
January 30, 2025
The closing deadline included in the sale agreement allows for closing to occur “on or…
OREF 112: Can You Waive the 18+ Interpreter Requirement for a 14-Year-Old?
January 30, 2025
Q: I noticed in OREF 112-Translation Interpretation Services Affidavit that item (b) states that the…
OREF Inspections: When & How Buyers Must Share Reports with Sellers
January 23, 2025
The language of the Licensed Professional Inspections contingency included in each of the Sale Agreements…
Terminating After Reviewing the Seller’s Property Disclosure: Which OREF Form to Use?
January 23, 2025
Q: After reviewing a completed OREF 020 – Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement, a buyer…
OREF Forms & Advisories: A Hidden Wealth of Real Estate Insights
January 16, 2025
Many OREF forms include a wealth of information regarding the topics of the forms and…
Vacation Coverage: How to Document Another Agent Covering for You
January 16, 2025
Q: If I have another agent working with a buyer for me while I’m on…
Master Your First Meeting: Must-Haves for Impressing Buyers and Sellers
January 15, 2025
Whether you’re working with sellers or buyers, having a well-prepared and professional presentation is key…
OREF 013 – Assignment & Assumption of Sale Agreement
January 8, 2025
When assigning a sale agreement to a new buyer or adding an additional buyer, it…
Backup Offers 101: What They Are, How to Proceed, and Whether They’re a Good Idea
January 2, 2025
Q: A buyer I am working with recently decided to make an offer on a…
When Clients Go Against Your Advice: Protect Yourself, Uphold Your Duties, and Know When to Walk Away
January 2, 2025
What should you do if your client tells you they’ve decided to take some action…
Private Well Test Shows Safe Levels—Can the Buyer Still Back Out Over Trace Arsenic?
December 26, 2024
Q: I represent the seller in the sale of a residential property that includes a…
Selling a Home with a Well? Test Early and Use Results for Up to a Year
December 24, 2024
When listing a property for sale that includes a well supplying groundwater for domestic purposes,…
Fence Encroachment & Section 18(f): Should Sellers Amend or Accept as Is?
December 19, 2024
Q: My seller has just received an offer on their home. In reviewing the terms…
Before Accepting an Offer: Why You Should Revisit the Seller’s Disclosure
December 17, 2024
When reviewing a newly received offer to purchase with a seller, it’s a good idea…
OREF 040 – Disclosed Limited Agency Agreement for Sellers + OREF 041 – Disclosed Limited Agency Agreement for Buyers
December 11, 2024
Using Disclosed Limited Agency forms (OREF 040 + OREF 041) offers clients transparency and confidence…
Strengthen Your Buyer’s Offer: Provide Proof of Funds & Pre-Approvals Up Front!
December 5, 2024
To strengthen your buyer’s offer, always include as much information as possible along with the…
Cash Offers & Proof of Funds: What Meets the ‘Objectively Reasonable’ Standard?
December 5, 2024
Q: I represent a seller who has received a cash offer. The buyer has…
Day 9, No Response: How to Handle Silence on a Buyer’s Repair Addendum
November 28, 2024
Q: I represent a homebuyer on an offer the seller has accepted. We agreed to…
VA Loans & Non-Allowable Fees: How to Give Sellers the Details They Need
November 27, 2024
When representing a buyer who is getting a VA loan and requesting the seller to…
Special Fire District Tax: Do You Check ‘Is’ in Section 42 of the Sale Agreement?
November 21, 2024
Q: I’m preparing an offer for a buyer on a home where the assessor’s office…
Tax Assessment Changes: Why Buyers Should Check with the County Assessor Before Making an Offer
November 18, 2024
Counties may change the assessed value of a piece of property if a recent sale…
OREF 003 – Sellers Counteroffer & OREF 004 – Buyers Counteroffer
November 13, 2024
Counteroffers (OREF 003 and OREF 004) make negotiations smoother and easier by providing clear, hassle-free…
Set Sellers Up for Success: Provide a Sample Sale Agreement & Use OREF 000A Early
November 7, 2024
When you begin working with a seller, it’s helpful to provide them with a sample…
Pending HOA Assessment: Where Else Should Sellers Disclose It in the Offer Process?
November 7, 2024
Q: I currently have an active listing – we have not yet received an offer….
Buyers Agent Fees: Don’t Forget to Clarify Payment Obligations During Negotiations
October 31, 2024
During negotiations, be sure to explain to your buyer how much, if any, of the…
Buyer Rep Clarity: Ensuring Buyers Understand They Don’t Pay Fees Already Covered by the Seller
October 31, 2024
Q: How do I make sure the Buyer Representation Agreement clearly outlines that if a…
Two Buyers, One Area: Is Dual Agency Disclosure Required?
October 24, 2024
Q: Do I need to disclose the existence of dual agency if I have two…
Double Trouble: Why Representing Two Buyers on One Property Creates Conflict
October 24, 2024
While permitted by Oregon statute, representing two separate buyer clients who are attempting to purchase…
Listing Agent Requests Your Buyer Rep Agreement—Must You Provide It?
October 17, 2024
Q: A listing agent is requesting a copy of my Buyer Representation Agreement. Am I…
Client Confidentiality: What You Can and Can’t Share in a Real Estate Transaction
October 17, 2024
Remember to keep confidential all information about your client and any documents they have signed,…
OREF 081 – Septic Onsite Sewage System Addendum
October 9, 2024
Based on subscriber feedback, the OREF 081—Septic Onsite Sewage System Addendum was revised earlier this…
Agents, Don’t Fill Out Seller’s Property Disclosures—Avoid Liability Risks
October 3, 2024
Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement. Users can help sellers understand the questions, but must not help…
Material Terms & Breach in OREF Forms: What Does ‘Material’ Really Mean?
October 3, 2024
Q: I see references in the OREF forms to “material terms” or “material breach.” what…
Seller Presentation Must-Haves: Key Items to Include for a Successful Pitch
September 26, 2024
Q: Do you have a list of suggested items to include in seller presentations? A:…
Well & Septic Inspections: Key Timelines & Addendums You Can’t Overlook
September 23, 2024
Well and septic system inspections have timelines different from the standard inspection period. It’s important…
Seller Disclosures in OREF C-501: Are They Required for Commercial Properties?
September 19, 2024
Q: I noticed questions about disclosure-type items in OREF C-501 – Commercial Sale Agreement in…
Buyer Privacy Alert: Silence Is Key in Homes with Recording Devices
September 16, 2024
In addition to using OREF 102 – Advisory to Buyer Recording Devices May Be Present,…
OREF 050 – Buyer Representation Agreement – Exclusive
September 12, 2024
We know we’ve discussed the OREF 050 — Buyer Representation Agreement — Exclusive before, but…
Buyer Rep Agreements & Lenders: Early Communication Matters
September 5, 2024
Encourage your buyer to discuss their Buyer Representation Agreement with their lender as early as…
Seller Modified OREF 048—Is the Buyer Still Committed to the Purchase?
September 5, 2024
Q: My buyer’s offer included OREF 048 – Seller Contributions Addendum, asking the seller to…
LBP Contingency: Can a Buyer Terminate Without a Risk Assessment?
August 29, 2024
Q: Can a buyer terminate based on the LBP contingency without having a risk assessment…
Drafting an Addendum: Why You Should Use the Term ‘Sale Agreement’ for Clarity
August 29, 2024
When drafting an Addendum to the Sale Agreement, using “Agreement” or “Sale Agreement” to refer…
Switching Lenders After a Pre-Approval: Can Buyers Change for a Better Rate?
August 22, 2024
Q: If my buyer provided a pre-approval letter with their offer, can they switch lenders…
SkySlope Mobile Update: Send Buyer Representation Agreements on the Go!
August 22, 2024
Good news for SkySlope users! You can now create and send a Buyer Representation Agreement…
Want Personal Property Included in the Sale? Put It in the Sale Agreement!
August 22, 2024
If the buyer would like to ensure specific personal property is included in the sale,…
Deed vs. Contract at Closing: Understanding Section 1 of the Sale Agreement
August 15, 2024
Q: What is the difference between the seller providing a deed or contract at closing,…
Capitalized Terms in OREF Forms: Definitions Matter for Clarity
August 15, 2024
Anytime you see a word capitalized in any OREF form, there is a definition for…
OREF 018 – Advisory to Seller Regarding Lead-Based Paint
August 6, 2024
Introducing the new OREF 018—Advisory to Seller Regarding Lead-Based Paint! This essential form helps you…
Helping Visually Impaired Clients: OREF Forms Now Available in Large Font
August 1, 2024
Do you have a client who is visually impaired? The OREF Residential Library is now…
Vacation Coverage: Essential Forms to Document Another Agent Covering for You
August 1, 2024
Q: If I have another agent working with a buyer for me while I’m on…
Ending a Buyer Representation Agreement: The Best Approach for a Smooth Termination
July 25, 2024
Q: What is the best way to terminate a Buyer Representation Agreement? A: Both OREF…
Handling Addendum Rejections: Best Practices for Clear Documentation
July 25, 2024
If a buyer or seller does not agree to an addendum presented to them, they…
Protecting Buyers from Interest Rate Spikes: How to Set a Rate Cap in Financing Terms
July 18, 2024
If your buyer is concerned about drastic changes in interest rates, you may want to…
Buyer Representation Presentation: Must-Have Forms for a Strong Start
July 18, 2024
Q: What are the best forms to include in a buyer representation presentation? A: With…
OREF 048 – Seller Contributions Addendum
July 8, 2024
OREF 048 – Seller Contributions Addendum, allows a buyer to effectively request and track seller…
One Buyer, Multiple Areas: Defining Territory in a Buyer Representation Agreement
June 27, 2024
If a Buyer is looking for property in multiple areas throughout the state and working…
OREF 054 & Insurance Certificates: Can the Seller Send It to the Buyer’s Agent Instead?
June 27, 2024
Q: OREF 054 – Agreement to Occupy After Closing states the seller must provide a…
Termination Agreement: Why It Doesn’t Include the Reason for Termination
June 20, 2024
Q: Why doesn’t the Termination Agreement list the reason for termination? A: OREF 057—Termination Agreement was…
OREF 048 – Seller Contributions Addendum: When & How to Use It Effectively
June 20, 2024
OREF 048 – Seller Contributions Addendum is now available to be used to negotiate seller-paid…
OREF 050 – Buyer Representation Agreement – Exclusive
June 12, 2024
With the passing of House Bill 4058 and the proposed NAR settlement, our form, OREF…
Completing OREF 020: Don’t Forget to Indicate Attached Pages for Clarity
June 6, 2024
When filling out OREF 020 – Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement, make sure the seller has…
Introducing OREF 050A: The New Addendum for Modifying Buyer Representation Agreements
May 30, 2024
Our new form, OREF 050A – Buyer Representation Agreement Addendum, can be used for modifying…
Sharing Blank OREF Forms: Can Subscribers Provide Them to Unrepresented Buyers?
May 30, 2024
Q: Can an OREF subscriber share blank forms with an unlicensed/unrepresented buyer on behalf of…
OREF 023 Retired: Use OREF 110 for Notifying Buyers of Completed Repairs
May 23, 2024
OREF 023 – Notice of Completion of Repairs/Corrective Action has officially been retired. Sellers should…
Seller’s Responsibilities for Well Testing: What You Need to Know
May 23, 2024
Q: What are the seller’s obligations regarding well testing? A: If a property being sold…
Dual Buyer Representation Agreements: Is the Buyer on the Hook for Two Commissions?
May 16, 2024
Q: A buyer has signed an exclusive Buyer Representation Agreement with agent 1 for one…
Seller’s Disclosure Obligations: What Must Be Shared, Even Without a Formal Statement?
May 16, 2024
Even if a transaction is excluded from requiring a Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement, the seller…
Oregon Real Estate Forms announces new platform provider, Mosaik.
May 15, 2024
Oregon Real Estate Forms (OREF), a leading provider of real estate transaction forms, is thrilled…
OREF 047 – Advisory Regarding Real Estate Compensation
May 8, 2024
In light of recent legal developments, creating transparency and eliminating confusion around compensation is more…
Defining ‘Extraordinary Events’ in the OREF 096 Addendum
May 2, 2024
Q: What is considered an ‘extraordinary event’ in the OREF 096 – Extraordinary Event Addendum?…
Selling a Home with a Woodstove? Here’s What You Need to Know
May 2, 2024
If a property contains an Uncertified Woodstove/Wood-Burning fireplace insert, Oregon law generally requires the device…
How to Renew Your zipForm® Subscription Hassle-Free
April 25, 2024
Steps for Renewing Your zipForm® Subscription: 1. Click “renew all” which should cost a total of…
Why Well Tests Aren’t Covered in OREF 064 – Notice of Unconditional Disapproval
April 25, 2024
Q: Why are well tests not addressed on OREF 064 – Notice of Unconditional Disapproval?…
Unsure About Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements? Your Local Fire Department Can Help!
April 25, 2024
If your buyer or seller is unsure of the specific Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm…
Lender Delays Closing—Who Gets the Earnest Money?
April 18, 2024
Q: If the transaction doesn’t close by the closing deadline agreed upon due to the…
OREF 022A & 022B: What Happens When a Repair Addendum Is Rejected?
April 18, 2024
When using OREF 022A & 022B – Buyer and Seller Repair Addenda, remember that when…
OREF 101 & C-555 – Offer Summary
April 11, 2024
The property buying and selling process is not short on paperwork. With such a high…
Writing an Offer on a Rental Property? Don’t Forget the OREF 070 Investment Property Addendum!
April 4, 2024
If a buyer is purchasing a property that is currently being used as, has previously…
Need to Edit Your Trust Fund Name in SkySlope? Tips & Tricks Inside!
April 4, 2024
Not sure how to edit your Trust funds name in your file on Skyslope? View…
Confused About Which OREF Sale Agreement to Use? Here’s What You Need to Know!
April 4, 2024
Q: I need help understanding when to use different versions of the OREF Sale Agreements….
Moving Firms? Update Your Email for Uninterrupted Access!
March 28, 2024
If you move firms, you can reach out to our subscriber service team and we…
Understanding the Closing Deadline in OREF Sale Agreements: Key Consideration
March 28, 2024
The Closing Deadline in the OREF Sale Agreements is the final date by which closing…
ZipForm® Users: Enhance Your Skills with Our Step-by-Step Tutorials!
March 28, 2024
Attention Zipform Users: Are you looking for training on how to utilize Zipforms platform better?…
OREF 059 Update: How HOA Document Access Affects Seller Responsibilities
March 28, 2024
Q: OREF 059 – Receipt of Reports/Removal of Contingencies was recently updated, allowing the seller…
Why Reviewing the Seller Representations Section Is Crucial
March 21, 2024
Sellers should thoroughly review the Seller Representations section of the sale agreement. If any information…
What Happens If a Buyer Can’t Obtain Homeowners Insurance?
March 21, 2024
Q: What if a buyer is unable to obtain homeowners insurance on a property they…
OREF 112 – Translation and Interpretation Services Affidavit
March 14, 2024
From contracts to client communications, the property buying and selling process involves a lot of…
Need to Revise an Agreed Upon Document? Here’s the Proper Way to Do It
March 7, 2024
If any revisions need to be made to a document after it has been agreed…
OREF 056: Buyer’s Revocation Notice & Refund Demand – What You Need to Know
February 25, 2024
OREF 056 – Buyer’s Notice to Seller of Revocation and Demand for Refund: This form…
OREF 046: Why There’s No ‘Unknown’ Option for Woodstove Certification
February 22, 2024
Q: On OREF 046 – Woodstove/Wood-Burning Fireplace Insert Addendum, why isn’t there an ‘unknown’ option…
ZipForm® Tip: How to Enter Text in Number-Only Fields
February 22, 2024
Are you a Zipforms user who has ever needed to input text into designated number…
OREF 020: Why Full Disclosure Is Always the Best Policy for Sellers
February 22, 2024
OREF 020 – Seller’s Property Disclosure Statements: If your seller asks if they should disclose…
OREF Deadlines & Business Days: Check the 2025 Holiday List for How Transactions are Impacted
February 15, 2024
Not sure what might be considered a business day regarding a deadline in the…
OREF 042: A Reminder of this Essential First-Contact Disclosure
February 15, 2024
OREF 042 – Initial Agency Disclosure Pamphlet: This form must be delivered to prospective parties…
Decoding HOA Transfer Fees: How to Determine Who Bears the Cost?
February 14, 2024
Q: What is the best way to determine who is responsible for paying any applicable…
OREF C-558 – Broker of Record Agreement
February 8, 2024
Are you a Commercial Principal Broker who has been contacted by an out-of-state agent requesting…
Ensure Timely Ordering of an Appraisal with a Simple Email Before the Inspection Deadline
February 1, 2024
Appraisal Ordering: OREF Sale Agreements state the buyer must authorize the lender to order the…
OREF 083 Unveiled: A Reminder that Buyer Contingency Waivers May Require Seller Approval
January 31, 2024
Q: In OREF 083-Buyer’s Contingent Right to Purchase Addendum, why is the buyer not able…
SkySlope “Update Form” Message Explained: What It Means for Your Transaction
January 25, 2024
Do you ever see the “Update Form” message in SkySlope and wonder what that means…
OREF 054 – Agreement to Occupy After Closing: Key Conversations to Have with Your Buyer to Avoid Post-Close Surprises
January 25, 2024
OREF 054 – Agreement to Occupy After Closing: When preparing the Agreement to Occupy, make…
When to Use OREF 083: Contingent Offers and What to Do If Your Buyer’s Property Is Already in Escrow
January 25, 2024
Q: If my buyer’s offer is contingent on the closing of their property, which is…
OREF 064 & 057: Why Sending Both Forms Matters for a Clean Escrow Termination
January 18, 2024
Although a buyer may be entitled to send the seller an OREF 064 – Notice…
OREF Sale Agreements: Do Buyers Need to Disclose Lender Funds in the Representation of Funds Section?
January 17, 2024
Q: In the OREF Sale Agreements, does the buyer need to include funds from a…
REALTORⓇ Guides — OREF 000 Residential & C-500 Commercial
January 11, 2024
This month’s highlight is the key that unlocks the benefits of all the other forms….
“Time Is of the Essence” in OREF Sale Agreements: What it Means
January 4, 2024
Q: What does “Time is of the essence” mean in OREF Sale Agreements? A: Every…
Identifying Strong Contingencies: Key Elements for Clarity and Compliance
January 4, 2024
Identifying a proper contingency: You see a lot of contingencies throughout your business. Here are…
Dear Forms Committee: In OREF 054 – Agreement to Occupy After Closing, is day one considered the date of closing or the day after closing?
December 28, 2023
Q: In OREF 054 – Agreement to Occupy After Closing, is day one considered the…
Dear Forms Committee: Can you please help clarify if the seller is responsible for repairs proposed on the Seller’s Repair Addendum if the buyer did not accept it before the inspection deadline?
December 21, 2023
Q: Can you please help clarify if the seller is responsible for repairs proposed on…
Multiple Counteroffers? Here’s How to Make Sense of the Final Purchase Price
December 7, 2023
Q: In Seller’s Counteroffer No. 1, the seller countered the buyers’ offer with four items,…
How To Add An Association In SkySlope
November 23, 2023
To add a new association or library in SkySlope, follow these steps: From your SkySlope…
OREF 020: How to Suggest Additional Questions for the Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement
November 16, 2023
Q: I would like some additional questions added to OREF 020-Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement –…
OREF C-539 – Buyer’s Notice of Termination
November 9, 2023
In a perfect world, all parties would agree to all aspects of a commercial transaction….
Does the Seller Have to Restore the Property After Repairs? Here’s Where to Look in the Contract
November 2, 2023
Q: A seller agreed to a pest control treatment requiring insulation removal, but doesn’t want…
Dear Forms Committee: In OREF-083 Buyers Contingent Right to Purchase Addendum, what is the purpose of the property being listed in “Bumpable” status, and at what point is it considered “Pending”?
October 26, 2023
The OREF-083 Buyers Contingent Right to Purchase Addendum was created to allow a buyer, who…
How To Select A Library In SkySlope
October 26, 2023
To view forms from a singular library in SkySlope, follow these steps: From your SkySlope…
Dear Forms Committee: I have a signed listing, but it is excluded from the MLS. The buyer’s agent and brokerage want some written confirmation of BAC from the seller. What is the best way to provide that?
October 18, 2023
A multiple listing service is not just a detailed list of properties that are for…
OREF 064 – Notice of Buyer’s Unconditional Disapproval
October 12, 2023
What’s the opposite of unconditional love? In the real estate realm, it just might be…
Dear Forms Committee: Why isn’t there an option for possession at recording in the OREF sale agreements?
October 5, 2023
Since there is no consistent communication medium in every transaction, there is no way…
How to Create Templates in SkySlope
September 28, 2023
Create a template in SkySlope by following these steps: Log in to SkySlope: skyslope.com/forms-login Select the…
Dear Forms Committee: Are there different time periods for inspection contingencies and other types of due diligence contingencies in OREF C-501 – Commercial Sale Agreement?
September 26, 2023
In OREF C-501 – Commercial Sale Agreement, the inspection and due diligence period are the…
OREF C-551 – Notice of Default
September 14, 2023
No one wants anything to go wrong with a commercial sale. In a perfect scenario,…
Dear Forms Committee: If I represent the buyer and the seller is unrepresented, should I fill out the offer presentation line of the Sale Agreement when I present my buyer’s offer to the seller?
September 7, 2023
In instances where the seller is not represented, there is no requirement for an agent…
Dear Forms Committee: The seller’s agent is asking me to provide the seller with a copy of the home inspection report. Do I have to provide it?
August 31, 2023
According to Section 12 of OREF – 001 Residential Real Estate Sale Agreement, if the…
Dear Forms Committee: The title company is asking for a commission form, is there one I can send them?
August 17, 2023
First, check with your brokerage to see if they have a specific in-house form they…
OREF 109 & 110 – Notice from Buyer to Seller & Notice from Seller to Buyer
August 15, 2023
Sometimes certain conditions arise — failure of financing contingency; objections to title; etc. —…
Dear Forms Committee: If my buyer is writing an offer contingent on funds received from the sale of an existing property, what forms should be included?
August 10, 2023
If the buyer’s purchase of the property is contingent upon the buyer obtaining funds from…
The US Ninth Circuit Court decided that Oregon’s law prohibiting the recording of conversations without permission is unconstitutional.
August 10, 2023
In July, the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court (a Federal court with the power to interpret…
SkySlope Users: What does the “Update Now” banner mean when accessing a form?
August 3, 2023
Where will you see this notification? When you open a form for editing from a…
Dear Forms Committee: Why do OREF forms use the term “agent” to describe the Realtor® in a transaction instead of “broker?”
August 3, 2023
There are several reasons that OREF has taken this approach when creating and revising our…
Dear Forms Committee: What tests must the seller perform when selling a property with a well?
July 19, 2023
Oregon law requires that the seller have the well tested for arsenic, nitrates, and total…
OREF 070 – Investment Property Addendum
July 13, 2023
Need a checklist to keep track of the basic due diligence items for your investment…
Dear Forms Committee: What are contingencies, and why aren’t there more contingencies?
July 12, 2023
The OREF Residential Real Estate Sale Agreement has a number of built-in contingencies: the receipt…
Dear Forms Committee: I heard that silence is no longer approval of property condition in the commercial sale agreement. Is that true?
July 5, 2023
Yes. In previous versions of the OREF Commercial Sale Agreement, if the buyer didn’t provide…
Dear Forms Committee: How do I calculate the buyer revocation period for OREF 020 – Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement?
July 3, 2023
Under the terms of the real estate sale agreement (see Section 16 of OREF –…
Dear Forms Committee: Why don’t the OREF Sale Agreements state the exact requirements for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
June 21, 2023
The smoke/carbon monoxide detector section of the OREF Sale Agreements (Section 25 of OREF 001…
Dear Forms Committee: Does the OREF Sale Agreement state that the buyer gets possession of the property once the deed is recorded?
June 14, 2023
Section 35 of OREF 001 Residential Real Estate Sale Agreement provides specific options for when…
Dear Forms Committee: What does “unconditional disapproval” mean in the OREF Sale Agreements?
June 14, 2023
The term “unconditional disapproval” is used many times throughout the OREF Sale Agreements. To disapprove…
OREF C-517 – Copyright Transfer Agreement
June 14, 2023
Real estate isn’t the first industry you think of when considering copyright agreements since it…
Dear Forms Committee: Do the same obligations survive termination that survive closing? What about earnest money?
June 7, 2023
No, the list of things that survive termination differs from those that survive closing. In…
Dear Forms Committee: What is considered ‘Notice’ in the OREF Sale Agreement?
May 30, 2023
“Notice” is defined in the OREF Sale Agreement as a written statement delivered using the…
Dear Forms Committee: If the seller would like to accept an offer after the offer expiration, is a standard addendum sufficient to extend the offer expiration date?
May 24, 2023
Yes, if the addendum covers both the extension and the acceptance, and everyone signs and…
OREF 050 – Buyers Representation Agreement
May 17, 2023
Who doesn’t appreciate clarity? Your buyers certainly will when they’re looking to understand exactly how…
Dear Forms Committee: What could a buyer object to in a title report?
May 10, 2023
Encroachments, liens, access problems, or CC&R limitations are a few examples of items that might…
Dear Forms Committee: What happens if one party believes the other party is in default under the terms of the OREF Sale Agreement?
May 9, 2023
The OREF Sale Agreement doesn’t lock the parties into using certain forms, responses, and deadlines…
Dear Forms Committee: What is the purpose of Sections 9 and 10 in the OREF Residential Sale Agreement if they don’t require anybody to do anything?
April 26, 2023
Question: What is the purpose of Sections 9 and 10 in the OREF Residential Sale…
Dear Forms Committee: Do I need to disclose dual agency if I have two buyers looking for a similar property in the same area?
April 20, 2023
Under Oregon law, a buyer’s agent may show properties in which their buyer is interested…
Dear Forms Committee: Which obligations of the parties in the Sale Agreement survive closing?
April 11, 2023
Generally, the Sale Agreement is presumed to be fulfilled or” performed” at closing. This is…
OREF 096 – Extraordinary Event Addendum
April 11, 2023
Not sure what to do when an unforeseen event impacts your sale? This form helps…
Dear Forms Committee: How does the financing contingency protect my client using the OREF Sale Agreement?
April 5, 2023
Per Sections 5.1 and 5.2 of the OREF 001 – Residential Sale Agreement, the transaction…
Dear Forms Committee: Can a contract be withdrawn orally?
April 3, 2023
In Oregon (as in many other states): an offer can be withdrawn if it has…
Dear Forms Committee: Preliminary Title Report
March 29, 2023
There should not be an automatic extension for every supplemental Preliminary Title Report. Often, a…
Dear Forms Committee: Is there a difference between State and Federal Holidays?
March 21, 2023
Yes, the state of Oregon has not adopted all federal holidays. A list of state…
Dear Forms Committee: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
March 15, 2023
Federal law states that a buyer cannot be obligated to purchase a home built before 1978 unless (1)…
OREF 107 – Referral Fee Agreement
March 14, 2023
Even in the modern world of online reviews, people love and trust a good referral….
OREF 108 – Advisory and Instructions Regarding Real Estate Purchase and Sale Forms
February 14, 2023
The notion of completing a real estate deal with a handshake may be an appealing…
Dear Forms Committee: Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement
February 13, 2023
The Seller's Property Disclosure Statement is a statutory form, and the legislature wrote the questions...
OREF 000 – Guide to Using OREF Residential Library Forms
January 13, 2023
Looking for a handy guide to all the OREF forms? This document provides a reference…
OREF Announces New Subscriber Benefit
December 30, 2022
SkySlope to provide digital disclosure solution, Breeze, to Oregon Real Estate Forms, LLC (OREF)…
OREF 101 – Offer Summary
December 13, 2022
Have you ever wanted to provide some basic information from an offer but didn’t want…
OREF Announces New Commercial Library
December 2, 2022
You work hard for your clients; we work hard for you. Oregon Real Estate Forms…
OREF 000A – Things to Know Before You Sign
November 14, 2022
This month’s selection is our Thanksgiving gift to you – one that should help make…
Spanish Translation Forms Now Available
September 19, 2022
All OREF forms are now available in both Spanish and English. The new Spanish translation…
OREF 106 – Advisory Regarding Tenant-Occupied Property
September 16, 2022
Selling your property is typically an involved process – even more so when you’re a…
OREF 043 – Electronic Funds Advisory
August 24, 2022
Have you ever been a victim of online fraud? Even if you’ve been fortunate enough…
OREF 105 – Solar Panel System Advisory & Addendum
July 6, 2022
July may have you thinking of bright sunny days and vacations spent soaking up those…
Did You Know? OREF 040 & 041 – Disclosed Limited Agency
June 30, 2022
Welcome to OREF’s first installment of our Did You Know Series. This series provides additional…
Introducing the New CEO of OREF Melissa Peterson
June 24, 2022
Oregon Real Estate Forms, LLC (OREF) is proud to announce that Melissa Peterson has been…