Chapter 2.1.
Law of contract

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Learning outcomes of this chapter:

  • Understand the essential elements that constitute a valid contract with reference to letter of intent, tenancy agreement, option to purchase (OTP) and sale & purchase (S&P) agreement:
    • Offer and acceptance (including the 3Ps: Parties, Property, Price)
    • Form (i.e. deed) or consideration
    • Capacity of parties (cross-refer to Paper 1, Unit 2.12)
    • Legality of object
  • Illustrate the legal effects of valid, void, voidable and unenforceable contracts.
  • Differentiate between warranty and condition in a contract.
  • Explain misrepresentation vis-à-vis duty of disclosure (vs. caveat emptor) and its effect on contract.
  • Name and describe how a contract may be discharged and the remedies available for breach of contract.
  • Relate the above principles to real estate contracts in respect of (cross-refer to Paper 2, Units 4.2 and 4.3):
    • When a contract for sale and purchase or for lease is formed
    • Assignment of contract
    • What constitutes a breach of condition
    • What facts/defects ought to be disclosed
    • What constitutes misrepresentation
    • When a contract is completed, rescinded or repudiated
    • When to seek assistance from a solicitor

Related Multiple Choice Questions

What must real estate contracts in Singapore include to be enforceable?

Charles is selling his house to Diana. After Diana exercises the OTP by paying the remaining down payment, what document becomes binding between Charles and Diana?

Sarah intends to sell her apartment to Tom. For their agreement to be considered a legally binding contract in Singapore, which of the following is NOT required?

What is the main purpose of the Sale & Purchase Agreement (S&P) in Singapore?

What can lead to the rescission of a contract in Singapore real estate transactions?

How can parties mitigate risks associated with real estate contracts in Singapore?

What does the phrase 'subject to contract' indicate in real estate transactions?

How can an agency relationship be legally created in Singapore’s real estate industry?

Gina breached her contract to sell a property to Harry. Which of the following is NOT a common legal remedy for breach of contract in real estate transactions in Singapore?

Kevin is selling land to Lucy, a foreigner, without obtaining the necessary approval. What is the status of this contract under Singapore law?

Which of the following is NOT a common legal remedy for breach of contract in Singapore real estate transactions?

A homeowner in Singapore wants to ensure that their friend can live in their house for a year while they're abroad. This can be formally arranged through a:

What is the purpose of the Option to Purchase (OTP) in Singapore real estate transactions?

What principle binds leasehold covenants in Singapore?

Olivia is considering buying a property from Peter. During their negotiations, Peter uses the phrase 'subject to contract'. What does this imply?