New Jersey's 3-Day Attorney Review, Explained

New Jersey has a step most other states don't: the attorney review period. If you're buying or selling a home here, it's one of the most important few days of the whole deal.

What it is

When a real estate agent prepares the sales contract for a home, the contract isn't final the moment everyone signs it. Buyer and seller each get a chance to have their own attorney review it. That window lasts three business days — weekends and legal holidays don't count — and it starts once the fully signed contract is delivered to both parties.

What can happen during attorney review

  • Approve — the attorneys do nothing or approve it, and the contract becomes binding when the period ends.
  • Request changes — for example, to inspection terms, dates, or what stays with the house.
  • Disapprove — either attorney can cancel the contract during this window.

Because the deal can still change or fall apart, sellers often keep an eye on backup offers until attorney review ends, and buyers should be ready to move quickly on inspections.

How to prepare

  1. Pick your attorney before you make an offer or list your home. Three business days goes fast.
  2. Know your must-haves: closing date, inspection timeline, mortgage contingency, and anything included in the sale.
  3. Keep your phone on — your attorney and I may need quick answers.

After attorney review

Next come the home inspection, the appraisal and mortgage commitment, the title search, the final walk-through, and the closing. See Closing the Deal.

This is general information, not legal advice. Your attorney will explain how it applies to your contract.

Questions? Call or text (201) 259-8132 · Mówię po polsku.

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