Dispositions

What to do when a cash buyer's attorney demands changes to your signed assignment contract

When a cash buyer's attorney pushes for contract changes after you have a signed assignment, it is a critical point in the deal. You need to understand your contractual obligations and the implications of any proposed revisions before agreeing to anything new.

November 14, 2026 · 3 min read

Understand the original contract terms

Before you do anything else, review the assignment contract you already have signed. Pay close attention to clauses about modifications, closing timelines, and any conditions for buyer approval. Knowing what was agreed to initially gives you a baseline for evaluating any new demands.

This isn't just about reading the words; it's about understanding the intent. What did you and your buyer shake hands on? What was the expectation for how this deal would proceed from that point? If the attorney is bringing up something fundamental, you need to know if it was implicitly covered or explicitly excluded.

Identify the specific proposed changes

Ask for a clear, written list of every change the buyer's attorney is proposing. Get specifics on which clauses they want to alter, add, or remove. Don't operate on vague phone conversations; you need to see the exact language they suggest.

Sometimes, these are minor, clarifying points. Other times, they can be substantial shifts that could impact your profit, liability, or the deal's timeline. Until you know exactly what is being asked, you cannot properly assess the situation.

Evaluate the impact of the changes on your deal

Once you have the proposed changes, go through each one and consider its effect. Will it extend the closing date, alter your assignment fee, introduce new contingencies, or shift responsibilities? Understand if these changes put you at more risk or reduce your profit.

Think about the ripple effect. A change in one area might seem small but could affect other parts of the deal, including your agreement with the original seller. Your priority is always to preserve the integrity and profitability of your assignment.

Communicate clearly and professionally

Respond to the attorney's requests in writing, acknowledging their points and stating your position. Be firm but professional. If you agree to some changes, document them clearly. If you disagree, explain why it's not feasible for your side of the transaction.

Avoid emotional responses. This is business. Present facts, refer back to the existing contract, and articulate how the proposed changes affect your ability to close the deal as initially planned. Remember, he or she is advocating for his or her client, and you must advocate for yourself.

Consider walking away if the changes are too disruptive

Not every deal is worth saving. If the buyer's attorney is demanding changes that fundamentally alter the deal's profitability, timeline, or risk profile beyond what you can reasonably accept, be prepared to walk away. Sometimes, taking a small loss on due diligence is better than pushing through a bad deal.

Have a backup plan. Maintain a robust list of cash buyers so you are not solely dependent on one. The ability to quickly find another buyer gives you leverage and protects you from being pushed into unfavorable terms. You can find leads on Speed to Seller to help build that list of potential buyers. For more on this, read about /how-to-work-your-leads.

When to consult your own legal counsel

If the proposed changes are complex, involve significant financial implications, or if you feel the buyer's attorney is overreaching, it's wise to consult your own real estate attorney. He or she can provide guidance specific to your state's laws and protect your interests. Remember, this is not legal advice.

Having your own legal counsel review the situation can give you peace of mind and ensure you are making informed decisions. He or she can also help negotiate the terms to find a middle ground that works for both parties, or advise you on the best way to terminate the agreement if necessary. Learn more about /for/wholesalers and /learn/wholesaling-vs-flipping-a-lead.

Questions people ask

What if the attorney says these changes are standard?

Even if an attorney claims changes are standard, always review them carefully. 'Standard' can vary greatly and may still affect your deal or shift risk to you. Your signed contract is the standard for your deal.

Should I agree to an extension if they demand changes?

An extension might be necessary to review and negotiate. If you grant one, make sure it's for a specific, short period, and that the original contract terms remain in effect until new ones are mutually agreed upon in writing.

Can a cash buyer cancel if I don't agree to their attorney's changes?

It depends on your contract. If the proposed changes are outside the scope of what was agreed, and there are no contingencies allowing the buyer to terminate for such a reason, then he or she may be in breach if he or she cancels. This is where your own attorney's advice is crucial. Learn more about /learn/what-is-a-motivated-seller-lead.