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The FHA Amendatory Clause form plays a crucial role in real estate transactions involving Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans. This form protects buyers by ensuring they are not obligated to proceed with a purchase unless they receive a written statement confirming the appraised value of the property meets or exceeds the agreed sales price. The appraised value is essential, as it determines the maximum mortgage amount that HUD will insure. Buyers can choose to move forward with the transaction regardless of the appraised value, but they must be aware that HUD does not guarantee the property's value or condition. The form also includes a real estate certification section, where all parties involved—the buyer, seller, and agents—attest to the accuracy of the sales contract and any related agreements. Understanding the implications of this form is vital for all parties to navigate the complexities of real estate transactions confidently and responsibly.

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FHA DISCLOSURES

AMENDATORY CLAUSE / REAL ESTATE CERTIFICATION

Buyer(s)

 

 

 

 

Date of Agreement:

 

Seller(s)

 

 

 

 

File No.:

 

 

Property Address :

 

 

 

 

 

 

FHA AMENDATORY CLAUSE

It is expressly agreed that notwithstanding any other provisions of this contract, the purchaser shall not be obligated to complete the purchase of the property described herein or to incur any penalty by forfeiture of earnest money deposits or otherwise unless the purchaser has been given in accordance with HUD/FHA or VA requirements a written statement by the Federal Housing Commissioner, Department of Veterans Affairs, or a Direct Endorsement lender setting forth the appraised value of

the property of not less than $. The purchaser shall have the privilege and option of proceeding with consummation of the contract without regard to the amount of the appraised valuation. The appraised valuation is arrived at to determine the maximum mortgage the Department of Housing and Urban Development will insure. HUD does not warrant the value nor the condition of the property. The purchaser should satisfy himself/herself that the price and condition of the property are acceptable.

Borrower

Date

 

 

 

Borrower

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Seller

 

Date

 

 

 

Seller

 

Date

Note: The dollar amount to be inserted in the amendatory caluse is the sales price as stated in the contract. If the borrower and seller agree to adjust the sales price in response to an appraised value that is less than the sales price, a new amendatory clause is not required. However, the loan application package must include the original sales contract with the same price as shown on the amendatory clause, along with the revised or amended sales contract.

REAL ESTATE CERTIFICATION

We, the borrower, seller, and the selling real estate agent or broker involved in the sales transaction certify by our signatures below that the terms and conditions of the sales contract are true to the best of our knowledge and belief, and that any other agreement entered into by any of these parties in connection with this real estate transaction is part of, or attached to, the sales agreement.

Borrower

Date

 

 

 

Borrower

Date

 

 

 

Seller

 

Date

 

 

 

Seller

 

Date

 

 

 

Listing Agent (as applicable)

 

Date

 

 

 

Selling Agent (as applicable)

 

Date

WARNING: Our signatures above indicate that we fully understand that it is a Federal Crime punishable by fine, imprisonment or both to knowingly make any false statements concerning any of the above facts as applicable under the provision of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1012 and 1014.

Calyx Form - amecla.frm (05/02)

Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Purpose The FHA Amendatory Clause protects buyers by allowing them to back out of a real estate transaction if the appraised value is less than the purchase price.
Governing Law This clause is governed by federal regulations under the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Appraised Value Requirement The buyer must receive a written statement from HUD, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or a Direct Endorsement lender stating the appraised value.
Sales Price The dollar amount inserted in the clause must match the sales price stated in the contract.
Buyer's Rights The buyer has the option to proceed with the purchase regardless of the appraised value.
Condition of Property HUD does not guarantee the property's value or condition; buyers should verify these independently.
Contract Amendments If the sales price is adjusted due to a lower appraised value, a new amendatory clause is not required.
Documentation The loan application must include both the original and any amended sales contracts.
Real Estate Certification All parties involved in the transaction must certify the accuracy of the sales contract terms.
Legal Consequences Making false statements related to the transaction can result in criminal penalties under federal law.

Fha Amendatory Clause: Usage Guidelines

After gathering all necessary information, you are ready to fill out the FHA Amendatory Clause form. Ensure that you have the correct details for the buyer(s), seller(s), and property. Follow the steps below to complete the form accurately.

  1. Enter the date of the agreement in the designated space.
  2. Fill in the names of the buyer(s) in the appropriate section.
  3. Enter the names of the seller(s) below the buyer(s).
  4. Input the file number if applicable.
  5. Provide the complete property address where indicated.
  6. In the FHA Amendatory Clause section, insert the sales price from the contract in the space provided for the appraised value.
  7. Ensure that all parties sign and date the form in the designated areas, including both buyers and sellers.
  8. If applicable, have the listing agent and selling agent sign and date the form as well.

Once completed, review the form for any errors or omissions before submitting it as part of your loan application package. Keep a copy for your records.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the FHA Amendatory Clause?

The FHA Amendatory Clause is a provision in real estate contracts that protects buyers by allowing them to withdraw from a purchase if the appraised value of the property is less than the agreed sales price. This clause ensures that buyers are not obligated to complete the transaction without a satisfactory appraisal, thus safeguarding their investment.

Why is the FHA Amendatory Clause important?

This clause is crucial for buyers using FHA financing. It provides them with a level of security, ensuring they do not pay more than the appraised value of the property. It also aligns with HUD/FHA requirements, promoting fair lending practices and protecting consumers from potential financial loss.

Who needs to sign the FHA Amendatory Clause?

All parties involved in the transaction must sign the FHA Amendatory Clause. This includes the buyer(s), seller(s), and any real estate agents or brokers. Their signatures confirm that they understand and agree to the terms outlined in the clause.

What happens if the appraised value is less than the sales price?

If the appraised value is lower than the sales price, the buyer has the option to either proceed with the purchase or withdraw from the agreement without penalty. This flexibility allows buyers to make informed decisions based on the appraisal results.

Is a new FHA Amendatory Clause needed if the sales price is adjusted?

No, a new FHA Amendatory Clause is not required if both the buyer and seller agree to adjust the sales price in response to a lower appraisal. However, it is essential to include the original sales contract and the revised contract in the loan application package to maintain compliance.

What should buyers do if they are unsure about the property value?

Buyers should conduct their own research and due diligence regarding the property’s value and condition. While the FHA Amendatory Clause provides protection, it is advisable for buyers to ensure that the price and condition of the property meet their expectations before finalizing the purchase.

What are the consequences of providing false information on the FHA Amendatory Clause?

Providing false information on the FHA Amendatory Clause is a serious offense. It is considered a federal crime, punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both. All parties must ensure that the information they provide is accurate and truthful to avoid legal repercussions.

Common mistakes

  1. Incorrectly Filling in the Appraised Value: One common mistake is entering an incorrect appraised value in the FHA Amendatory Clause. This value should reflect the sales price as stated in the contract. Failing to do so can lead to complications in the financing process.

  2. Neglecting to Include Required Signatures: All parties involved in the transaction must sign the form. Omitting any required signatures can invalidate the agreement, creating potential issues down the line.

  3. Ignoring the Importance of the Appraisal Process: Some buyers mistakenly assume that the appraised value will automatically align with their offer. It is essential to understand that the appraisal is conducted to determine the maximum mortgage amount that HUD will insure, and it does not guarantee the property’s value or condition.

  4. Failing to Attach the Original Sales Contract: When adjustments are made to the sales price due to a lower appraised value, buyers often forget to include the original sales contract with the same price as shown on the amendatory clause. This omission can complicate the loan application process.

Documents used along the form

When navigating the home buying process, particularly with FHA loans, several important documents accompany the FHA Amendatory Clause form. Each of these documents plays a vital role in ensuring clarity and compliance throughout the transaction. Below is a brief overview of five key forms often used alongside the FHA Amendatory Clause.

  • FHA Loan Application (Form 92900-A): This document is essential for initiating the loan process. It collects personal and financial information from the borrower to assess eligibility for an FHA loan. It includes details about income, debts, and assets.
  • Sales Contract: This is the primary agreement between the buyer and seller outlining the terms of the property sale. It includes the purchase price, contingencies, and any specific conditions agreed upon by both parties.
  • Appraisal Report: Conducted by a licensed appraiser, this report provides an independent assessment of the property's value. It is crucial for determining whether the property meets FHA standards and for ensuring the loan amount aligns with the property's worth.
  • Closing Disclosure: This document details the final terms of the loan, including the closing costs and the loan amount. It must be provided to the borrower at least three days before closing, allowing them to review and understand the financial obligations involved.
  • Title Insurance Policy: This policy protects the buyer and lender against any potential disputes regarding property ownership. It ensures that the title is clear and free of any liens or encumbrances that could affect the buyer’s rights to the property.

Understanding these documents is crucial for a smooth transaction. Each form serves a specific purpose, helping to protect the interests of all parties involved. By being familiar with these documents, buyers and sellers can navigate the complexities of the FHA loan process with greater confidence.

Similar forms

The FHA Amendatory Clause form serves a specific purpose in real estate transactions, particularly those involving federally insured loans. However, several other documents share similarities in their intent and function. Below is a list of six documents that are comparable to the FHA Amendatory Clause, along with explanations of how they are alike:

  • VA Amendatory Clause: This document is similar in that it protects the buyer in a real estate transaction involving a VA loan. Like the FHA version, it allows the buyer to back out if the appraised value is less than the agreed purchase price, ensuring that they are not financially penalized.
  • Home Purchase Agreement: This agreement outlines the terms of the sale and often includes contingencies related to financing and appraisal. Similar to the FHA Amendatory Clause, it allows buyers to withdraw if certain conditions, such as appraised value, are not met.
  • Contingency Addendum: This document specifies conditions that must be satisfied for the sale to proceed. It is akin to the FHA Amendatory Clause in that it can include appraisal contingencies, protecting buyers from overpaying for a property.
  • Real Estate Purchase Contract: This contract formalizes the agreement between buyer and seller. It typically contains clauses that mirror the FHA Amendatory Clause, ensuring that the buyer can opt out if the property's appraisal does not meet expectations.
  • Loan Commitment Letter: This letter from a lender outlines the terms of the mortgage. While it does not directly relate to the purchase price, it assures the buyer that financing is in place, similar to how the FHA Amendatory Clause assures the buyer about the appraisal process.
  • Disclosure Statement: This document provides essential information about the property, including its condition and any known issues. It aligns with the FHA Amendatory Clause by emphasizing the importance of buyer awareness regarding the property’s value and condition before finalizing the sale.

Understanding these documents can help buyers navigate the complexities of real estate transactions more effectively, ensuring they are protected throughout the process.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the FHA Amendatory Clause form, it's essential to approach the task with care. Here’s a list of what you should and shouldn’t do to ensure accuracy and compliance.

  • Do make sure to fill in the correct property address.
  • Do include the sales price as stated in the contract in the appropriate section.
  • Do review the form for any missing signatures before submitting.
  • Do ensure all parties involved in the transaction are aware of the FHA requirements.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Don’t leave any sections blank; every part of the form is important.
  • Don’t forget to include the original sales contract with the loan application package.
  • Don’t attempt to alter the form once it has been signed by all parties.
  • Don’t ignore the warning about making false statements; it’s a serious offense.
  • Don’t assume that a new amendatory clause is needed if the sales price changes; just provide the revised contract.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smoother process when dealing with the FHA Amendatory Clause form. Always double-check your work and communicate openly with all parties involved to avoid any misunderstandings.

Misconceptions

Understanding the FHA Amendatory Clause can help buyers and sellers navigate real estate transactions more effectively. However, several misconceptions often arise regarding this form. Below are six common misunderstandings:

  • The FHA Amendatory Clause guarantees a specific appraised value. This clause does not guarantee that the appraised value will meet or exceed the sales price. It simply states that the buyer is not obligated to proceed unless the appraised value meets the specified amount.
  • The buyer must always provide a new amendatory clause if the sales price changes. If the sales price is adjusted in response to a lower appraised value, a new amendatory clause is not necessary. The original sales contract must still be included in the loan application package.
  • The FHA is responsible for the condition of the property. The FHA does not warrant the property's condition. Buyers should conduct their own inspections to ensure the property meets their standards.
  • The clause protects the seller as well as the buyer. The FHA Amendatory Clause primarily protects the buyer by allowing them to withdraw from the contract without penalty if the appraised value is insufficient.
  • All real estate transactions require an FHA Amendatory Clause. This clause is specifically for transactions involving FHA-insured loans. Not all real estate transactions will involve FHA financing.
  • The appraised value is the final determination of property worth. The appraised value is used to determine the maximum mortgage amount the FHA will insure, but it does not necessarily reflect the market value or the buyer's willingness to pay.

Addressing these misconceptions can lead to a clearer understanding of the FHA Amendatory Clause and its role in real estate transactions.

Key takeaways

The FHA Amendatory Clause is an important document in real estate transactions involving FHA loans. Here are key takeaways regarding its use and completion:

  • Understanding the Clause: The FHA Amendatory Clause allows buyers to avoid penalties if the appraised value of the property is less than the agreed sales price. This protects buyers from overpaying based on an inflated appraisal.
  • Appraised Value Requirement: Buyers must receive a written statement from the Federal Housing Commissioner or a Direct Endorsement lender that specifies the appraised value of the property. This value must meet or exceed the sales price stated in the contract.
  • Adjustment of Sales Price: If the appraised value is lower than the sales price, the buyer and seller can negotiate a new price. In such cases, a new amendatory clause is not necessary, but the original and revised sales contracts must be included in the loan application package.
  • Certification of Information: All parties involved in the transaction must certify that the information in the sales contract is accurate. This includes the buyer, seller, and real estate agents, acknowledging the seriousness of providing false information.