Q: Is a realtor obligated to provide a signed document for an accepted bid?
I submitted a second bid for a property, and my realtor informed me verbally the next day that the bid was accepted. However, I haven't received any written confirmation of the acceptance. Is the realtor obligated to provide a signed document confirming the accepted bid?
A:
Traditionally, you and the Seller will both sign what is called an "earnest money contract." It will contain the sales price you and the seller agreed upon as well as certain other terms. You will deposit a sum of money with a title company as earnest money (showing that you are "earnestly" interested in buying the property) and setting a closing date (typically in 30-45 days). During that time, the seller cannot sell the property to anyone else but can enter into back-up contracts in case yours falls though. That time is also designed to give you the opportunity to make arrangements to pay for the property either by freeing up your own funds or obtaining a purchase money loan. It also gives you and your lender the time to make any necessary inspections of the property and to review the title to ensure the Seller has good, clean, marketable title.
Normally, when all parties have signed the earnest money contract, your realtor will provide you with a copy, but that might take 7-10 days.
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A:
That’s a really important moment in any real estate transaction, and it’s understandable to want clear confirmation. In Texas, a real estate contract is not legally binding until it’s in writing and signed by both the buyer and the seller. A verbal statement from your realtor—even if they say your bid was accepted—is not enough to finalize the deal or give you legal standing.
Your realtor is not necessarily obligated to provide a signed document themselves, but they should facilitate the process of getting the official signed contract from the seller. Until you receive that document with both parties’ signatures, the offer is not considered fully accepted under Texas law. Without it, the seller could still consider other offers or change their position.
You should follow up with your realtor in writing and request the signed acceptance for your records. If they are unable to provide it, ask for a clear explanation of where things stand and whether the seller has actually signed off. You’re doing the right thing by asking for clarity—real estate deals depend on documented agreements, not just verbal updates.
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