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Contracts ConveyancingContract TermsHARD

A contract of sale contains a clause stating 'Time is of the essence' regarding the settlement date. The purchaser is unable to settle on the specified date due to delayed finance approval. What is the most likely legal consequence?

Correct Answer

C) The vendor may terminate the contract and keep the deposit

When 'Time is of the essence' is specified in a contract, strict compliance with time limits is required. If the purchaser fails to settle by the specified date, this constitutes a fundamental breach allowing the vendor to terminate the contract, retain the deposit, and potentially claim additional damages.

Answer Options
A
The settlement date automatically moves back fourteen days under the standard conditions
B
The purchaser may still complete late, provided penalty interest is paid
C
The vendor may terminate the contract and keep the deposit
D
The contract becomes voidable at the purchaser's option because of the delay

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

time is of the essencefundamental breachcontract terminationdeposit forfeituresettlement deadline
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