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Kevin and Linda are negotiating the purchase of a $650,000 home in Spokane. Kevin, the buyer, insists that the purchase agreement specify that he will pay the REET so the seller will accept a lower price. Which of the following statements is most accurate regarding this arrangement?

Correct Answer

D) This arrangement is permissible by contract, but the seller remains primarily liable under state law if REET goes unpaid

Under RCW 82.45, the seller is the party primarily responsible for paying REET. However, parties may contractually agree that the buyer will pay REET as part of their negotiated terms. This contractual arrangement is permissible, but it does not eliminate the seller's underlying statutory liability to the state. If the buyer fails to pay, the state can still pursue the seller. The county treasurer will not record the deed until REET is paid, regardless of who the contract designates as the payer.

Answer Options
A
This arrangement requires prior approval from the Washington State Department of Revenue
B
This arrangement is valid and fully transfers all REET liability to the buyer under RCW 82.45
C
This arrangement is prohibited by Washington law; REET must always be paid by the seller
D
This arrangement is permissible by contract, but the seller remains primarily liable under state law if REET goes unpaid

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

reetseller_liabilitycontractual_allocationrcw_82_45spokane

Related Concepts

Homestead portability allows homeowners to transfer a portion of their accumulated homestead tax savings to a new homestead in the same state.

The income approach estimates a property's value based on the income it generates by converting net operating income into a value estimate using a capitalization rate. It is the preferred method for income-producing properties.

Many states have laws to limit how much property taxes can increase each year, regardless of market value fluctuations.

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