EstatePass
ContractsElements_of_a_valid_contractMEDIUM

Robert signs a purchase agreement to buy a home in Spartanburg, South Carolina, after the seller's agent tells him the basement has never flooded, which Robert later discovers was knowingly false. Robert wants to get out of the contract. Which legal basis would most likely allow Robert to void the contract under South Carolina law?

Correct Answer

C) Fraudulent misrepresentation, which makes the contract voidable at Robert's option

Under South Carolina law, a contract induced by fraudulent misrepresentation — a knowingly false statement of material fact made to induce another party to enter the contract — is voidable at the innocent party's option. Because the seller's agent knowingly made a false statement about the basement flooding, Robert may elect to rescind the contract on the ground of fraudulent misrepresentation. This is a recognized basis for voiding a contract that would otherwise appear to have all required elements.

Answer Options
A
Lack of consideration, because the seller withheld material information
B
Lack of legal capacity, because Robert was misled into signing
C
Fraudulent misrepresentation, which makes the contract voidable at Robert's option
D
Mutual mistake, because both parties were unaware of the true condition

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Deep Analysis of This Contracts Question

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Background Knowledge for Contracts

Sign up free to unlock full analysis
Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Real World Application in Contracts

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Contracts Questions

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

fraudulent_misrepresentationvoidable_contractmutual_assentsc_contractsdisclosure

Related Concepts

A time is of the essence clause in a contract means that all deadlines and dates specified in the agreement are strictly enforceable, and failure to meet them constitutes a material breach.

An appraisal contingency allows the buyer to cancel or renegotiate the contract if the property's appraised value comes in lower than the agreed-upon purchase price. This contingency protects buyers from overpaying.

An assignment of contract transfers one party's rights and obligations under a contract to a third party called the assignee. The original party, known as the assignor, transfers their contractual position to someone who was not originally part of the agreement.

Was this explanation helpful?

More Contracts Questions

People Also Study

Related Articles

Contracts Questions

Practice More Questions

Access 2,000+ practice questions and pass your real estate exam.

Start Practicing