Agent Training Hub
Your complete guide to MN & ND residential real estate forms โ how to fill them, what to watch for, and Vision Realty's standard defaults.
Start Here: Transaction Workflow
See the complete order of forms from first contact through closing.
View workflow โVision Realty Defaults
Pre-filled values we use on every transaction. Know these cold.
View defaults โGlossary
Plain-English definitions for every term you'll encounter in the field.
View glossary โUse the left sidebar to jump to any form. Each form page shows you every important field, what it means, how Vision Realty typically fills it, and tips to avoid common mistakes. Use the search bar above to find any specific field or term instantly.
This training tool provides educational guidance only. It is not legal advice. All forms are legally binding contracts โ always consult your broker or a licensed attorney if you have specific legal questions. Forms are based on MNREC (Rev. 8/2025) and NDAR (Rev. 2025โ2026) approved versions.
Transaction Workflow
The typical order of forms and events in an MN or ND residential sale, from first meeting through closing.
First Contact & Agency Disclosure
At first substantive contact, present the Agency Relationships Disclosure. This is required by law before discussing representation.
Listing Appointment
Review the property, determine pricing, and execute the Exclusive Right to Sell listing contract. Collect the Wire Fraud Alert signature.
Seller Disclosures
Seller completes the Property Disclosure Statement at listing time. Additional disclosures required for well, septic, or pre-1978 homes.
Offer Received
Buyer submits a Purchase Agreement. Review all terms carefully with Seller. Seller may accept, reject, or counteroffer.
Counteroffer (if needed)
If Seller wants to change any terms, use the Counteroffer Addendum. Only attach the final counteroffer to the PA.
Lead Paint Disclosure
Required for any home built before 1978. Must be signed by both parties and the real estate licensee(s).
Inspections & Contingencies
Buyer conducts inspections within the agreed inspection period. Any negotiated repairs are documented in writing.
Financing & Closing
Buyer secures financing, appraisal is ordered, title work is completed. Closing occurs on the agreed date.
Listing Contract: Exclusive Right to Sell
MN:LC:ERS โ 7 pages โ Approved by the Minnesota Association of REALTORSยฎ (Rev. 8/2025)
This is the contract that gives Vision Realty the exclusive right to market and sell the Seller's property. Once signed, the Seller cannot list with another brokerage during the contract period. It defines the listing price, commission, MLS options, and the broker-seller relationship.
Page 1 โ Property & Contract Basics
The date the contract is signed. Use today's date โ never leave blank or pre-date.
Full street address, city, county, state, zip code, and legal description. The legal description comes from the county records or abstract โ do not guess at this.
Full legal name(s) of all owners. If the property is owned jointly, all owners must be listed and must sign. If owned by a trust or estate, list the trust/estate name and the authorized person.
The licensed real estate company name.
The listing period. Typically 6โ12 months for residential property. The contract automatically terminates at closing or at the end date, whichever comes first. Can only be canceled early by written mutual agreement.
The price Seller wants to list the property for. This is determined by a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Write out the full dollar amount โ no abbreviations.
Page 2 โ MLS Data Feed Options
These 4 options control how the property appears online. The MLS system defaults all to "Yes" โ Vision Realty's pre-filled templates also default all to Yes.
If "No," the listing will NOT appear on any public-facing websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, etc. Only select "No" if Seller specifically requests privacy.
If "No," the address is hidden on public sites โ buyers can see the listing but not the address. Rare use case, typically for celebrity or high-privacy clients.
AVMs (like Zestimate) appear next to the listing on IDX/VOW sites. Some sellers dislike them because they may undervalue the property. Seller can opt out by selecting "No."
Allows public comments to be attached to the listing on VOW/IDX sites. Selecting "No" prevents this.
Page 3 โ Commission & Compensation
The percentage Vision Realty earns when the property sells. This is the TOTAL listing side commission.
Vision Realty charges a $399 transaction fee in addition to the commission percentage. This is added in the "OTHER" section of the listing contract.
This section determines whether Vision Realty will offer compensation directly to cooperating (buyer's) brokers through the MLS. Post-NAR settlement (2024), the standard approach is to have buyers negotiate this in their Purchase Agreement rather than through the MLS.
Page 5 โ Agency Representation & Closing Services
Seller chooses who arranges the closing. Vision Realty defaults to "Seller directs Broker to arrange for a qualified closing agent."
Seller must declare whether they are a "foreign person" for tax purposes. For most MN/ND sellers, the answer is IS NOT.
If a Vision Realty buyer wants to purchase the Seller's property, a dual agency situation is created. Seller must decide in advance whether to consent. Vision Realty defaults to "Seller WILL agree to dual agency."
Page 7 โ Signatures
ALL owners of the property must sign. The licensee signs on behalf of the brokerage. Collect marital status for each seller โ this affects who must sign the deed at closing.
Seller's Property Disclosure Statement
MN:DS:SPDS โ 10 pages โ Required by MN Statutes 513.52โ513.60 (Rev. 8/2025)
The Seller's Property Disclosure Statement is the Seller's sworn representation of the property's condition based on their actual knowledge. This is NOT a warranty or home inspection โ it's the seller telling the buyer what they know. Sellers are legally required to disclose all material facts they're aware of that could adversely affect the buyer's use or enjoyment of the property.
The AGENT does not complete this form โ the SELLER does. Your job is to give it to them, explain it, and answer questions. If you fill it in for them, you could be creating liability. Make sure sellers understand that "NO" doesn't mean it doesn't exist โ it means they don't know about it.
Section A โ General Information (Pages 1โ2)
Did the Seller buy (Acquire) the property or build it? Check one and fill in the date.
Abstract, Registered (Torrens), or Unknown. Most Cass/Clay County ND properties are abstract. Minneapolis suburban areas often have both. Check the prior title work if unsure.
Sellers must disclose flood zone designation, current flood insurance, and any prior FEMA claims. This is increasingly important as premiums rise significantly.
Section B โ General Condition (Pages 2โ4)
Age of roofing material on home AND garage/outbuildings. This is one of the first things buyers ask about.
8 separate checkboxes covering cracks, drain tile, flooding, foundation problems, leakage, sewer backup, wet floors, and other. Any "Yes" requires written details.
Section C โ Appliances & Systems (Page 4)
A checklist of all systems and appliances. Check NA if not on property, YES if working, NO if not working. Items that are Rented (not owned) are noted โ these do NOT transfer with the sale unless the buyer assumes the contract.
Water softeners, propane tanks, security systems, and TV satellite dishes are often rented. These items do NOT automatically convey with the sale. Buyer and Seller must agree on what happens to rented equipment.
Key Disclosure Sections (Pages 5โ9)
If a septic system exists, Seller checks "DOES" and must also complete the separate Disclosure Statement: Subsurface Sewage Treatment System form.
If a well exists, Seller must also complete the separate Disclosure Statement: Well. Required by MN Statute 103I.235.
Required by the Minnesota Radon Awareness Act. Seller must disclose whether radon tests have been performed, attach current test results, and note any mitigation systems. The MDH radon publication must also be provided to Buyer.
Covers asbestos, mold, formaldehyde, hazardous waste, underground storage tanks, lead, soil problems, and vapor intrusion. Any "Yes" requires written explanation.
Signatures
Seller(s) sign at the time of listing, confirming the information is true and accurate to the best of their knowledge.
Buyer acknowledges receipt at the time of signing the Purchase Agreement. This does NOT mean Buyer agrees with everything in the disclosure.
Disclosure Statement: Well
MN-DS:W โ 3 pages โ Required by MN Statute 103I.235 (Rev. 8/2025)
Any time a property has a well on it or serving it. Required by state law. The location map (MN-lM) must also be completed and attached.
Well Information Table (Page 1)
All wells constructed after January 1, 1975 were assigned a unique number. Seller should have this in their property records. If unknown, contact the well contractor or search the MDH Well Index online.
IN USE โ operated daily, seasonally, or for irrigation/fire. NOT IN USE โ not sealed but not used. SEALED โ licensed contractor completely filled the bore hole with grout. A "capped" well (just a cap on top) is NOT sealed โ it's "NOT IN USE."
If the well serves multiple properties, disclose how many properties, who manages it, and if there's a maintenance agreement and annual fee.
Disclosure Statement: Subsurface Sewage Treatment System
MN-DS:SSTS โ 3 pages โ Required by MN Statutes Chapter 115.55 (Rev. 8/2025)
Any time a property has a septic system. Adding bedrooms or water-use appliances since installation may mean the system no longer complies with current rules โ Seller must disclose this.
Key Fields
Septic Tank with drain field, mound system, seepage tank, or sealed holding tank. Check all that apply and indicate on the Location Map.
When installed, installer name/phone, tank size, when last pumped, how often pumped, drain field location and size. Pumping receipts are helpful to attach.
Number of people using the system, showers/baths per week, laundry loads per week. This helps buyers understand if the system is sized appropriately for their family.
Disclosure Statement: Location Map
MN-lM โ 1 page โ Required with Well and/or Septic disclosures (Rev. 8/2025)
A hand-drawn sketch showing where the well, septic system, and/or methamphetamine production area (if applicable) are located on the property. Must include approximate distances from fixed reference points like streets, buildings, and landmarks.
How to Complete
Check whether the map shows: Subsurface Sewage Treatment System, Well, and/or Methamphetamine Production Area.
Draw a simple overhead view of the property. Show the house, garage, driveway, road, and the location of the well/septic with approximate distances. It does not need to be to scale โ just clear enough for a buyer to understand layout.
Exclusive Right to Sell Listing Agreement
NDAR โ 6 pages โ Approved by the North Dakota Association of REALTORSยฎ (Rev. 4/2026)
The ND listing agreement covers similar ground to the MN version but includes ND-specific requirements: Appointed Agency (unique to ND), Minerals disclosure, FinCEN reporting notice, and a broader inclusions/exclusions list. It also explicitly lists Seller's duties including warranting appliances at closing.
Page 1 โ Property & Listing Terms
The asking price. Written in the form "$ ___________".
North Dakota has significant mineral rights activity. Seller must indicate whether minerals are included, excluded, or unknown. This has significant value implications โ always ask and document.
A detailed list of what conveys with the property. The form pre-lists standard items (appliances, fixtures, etc.). Sellers must specifically list any exclusions โ items they want to take with them.
Page 2 โ Property Details
Seller consents to a lockbox being placed on the property. Vision Realty defaults to using a lockbox. Seller can decline โ note location in the blank provided.
If any audio/video surveillance is active on the property, Seller MUST post notice at entry points. Broker must disclose this to all parties. MN and ND both restrict recording without consent.
Seller warrants all appliances, heating, AC, wiring, and plumbing to be in working order on the date of closing โ EXCEPT for items listed here. If something is broken, exclude it explicitly.
Page 3 โ Compensation
Vision Realty charges 2.7% of the purchase price PLUS a $399 transaction fee.
1) 2.7% of purchase price โ
3) Transaction fee of $399.00 โ
Three options: (1) Offer a set amount, (2) Invite buyers to include their broker comp request in the Purchase Agreement, or (3) Decline to offer. Vision Realty's default is to let buyers request in the offer.
If within this many days after the listing expires, Seller sells to someone who was shown the property or showed interest during the listing period, Vision Realty is still owed commission.
Pages 4โ5 โ Agency Representation
North Dakota allows "Appointed Agency" โ where a specific agent within the brokerage is appointed to exclusively represent the Seller. This avoids dual agency in in-house transactions. The appointed agent is named specifically in the agreement.
If Appointed Agency doesn't apply or isn't available, Seller decides whether to accept dual agency. Vision Realty defaults to accepting dual agency.
If an entity or trust is buying the property, new federal FinCEN reporting requirements may apply. This is a disclosure to Seller โ consult legal/tax professionals if entity buyers are involved.
Seller's Property Disclosure
NDAR โ 10 pages โ Required by ND Century Code 47-10-02.1 (Rev. 8/2025)
The ND form uses YES/NO/UNKNOWN/NA answers (vs. MN's mostly Yes/No), includes a broader structural elements section, has ND-specific flood disclosure for overland flooding (a significant ND concern), and includes property tax/specials disclosure. Also requires answer on all items, even if "Unknown."
General Information (Section 43)
Is the property on a public road, private road, or public road not maintained? Gravel township roads in ND are often "public not maintained" โ meaning the public owns the road but there's no maintenance budget. This matters for buyers who want paved access.
Structural Elements (Section 44)
Separate fields for home and garage/outbuildings. ND hailstorms are frequent โ ask about any insurance claims for hail damage to roofs.
ND form specifically asks about plumbing, electrical, heat, and gas rough-ins for future amenities (wet bar, hot tub, generator, etc.). These are selling features โ make sure sellers answer Yes and explain.
Utilities (Section 45)
Many rural ND properties have a Rural Water District membership instead of a private well. This membership often transfers with the property. Seller must provide membership transfer information.
Sellers list gas, electric, water, and trash providers plus average monthly costs. This is extremely useful data for buyers budgeting for ownership. Encourage sellers to provide accurate averages from their utility bills.
Flood Disclosure (Section 54)
ND specifically requires disclosure of overland flooding history (not just federally-designated floodplains). The Red River Valley, James River basin, and many ND communities have significant flood history. Sellers must answer honestly about any past flooding events.
Property Tax/Specials (Section 62)
ND allows a market value exclusion for home improvements that reduces property taxes. This exclusion terminates upon sale, which means the buyer's taxes will likely be HIGHER than the current owner's. Buyers must be informed of this.
Well Disclosure
NDAR โ 2 pages โ (Rev. 7/2025)
Similar to the MN version, but contacts the ND Department of Environmental Quality (Division of Water Quality, 701-328-5210) instead of MDH. The form also asks for the "date last tested" for each well in the table.
Key Differences from MN
ND's form includes a specific column for when the well was last tested for contaminants. If test results are available, they must be attached.
If a shared well agreement exists, it must be attached. Buyers should know who manages it and what the annual fees are.
Private Sewage Treatment System Disclosure
NDAR โ 2 pages โ (Rev. 3/2023)
ND's form explicitly asks whether the system is in compliance with current laws and rules (Yes/No/Unknown). MN's form asks about defects but doesn't specifically ask about compliance status. ND also asks for the distance between the well and sewage system.
Notable Fields
Is the system in compliance? Many older ND systems are not up to current code. "Unknown" is an acceptable answer, but it should prompt buyers to include a septic inspection contingency.
Minimum separation distances are required by ND law. Typically wells must be at least 50 feet from septic tanks and 100 feet from drain fields, but this varies by county.
Agency Relationships in Real Estate Transactions
MN:AGCYDICS โ 2 pages โ Required by MN Law (Rev. 8/2025)
At FIRST SUBSTANTIVE CONTACT with any consumer โ before discussing their specific needs, before showing property, and before any representation agreement. This is the law in Minnesota. Failing to provide this at the right time is a licensure issue.
The Four Agency Options in MN
Represents and owes fiduciary duties exclusively to the Seller. Must still disclose material facts about the property to Buyers. If working with a buyer as a customer (not client), must put Seller's interests first.
Represents and owes fiduciary duties exclusively to the Buyer. Can be paid by Seller without changing who they represent. Must disclose material facts to Buyer.
One broker represents BOTH buyer and seller in the same transaction. Significantly limits what the agent can do for either party. Cannot advocate for one party's position, cannot share confidential price/motivation info. Requires written consent from BOTH parties.
Assists both parties but represents neither. Owes only confidentiality โ no loyalty, obedience, disclosure, care, or accounting duties. Must still be honest and disclose material facts. Least common in MN residential transactions.
The Six Fiduciary Duties
Act only in client's best interest
Carry out all lawful instructions
Share all material facts known
Keep client's confidences
Use skill and diligence as an agent
Account for all client money received
Agency Relationships Disclosure
NDAR โ 2 pages โ Required by ND Law (Rev. 8/2024)
Required at "first substantive contact" โ which ND defines as the first contact where the agent begins discussing a specific property or a consumer's specific needs. Provide this before showing property.
ND-Specific Agency Types
ND explicitly defines "Customer" as a party NOT represented by a broker. Brokers owe customers honesty, disclosure of adverse material facts about the property, but NOT the full fiduciary duties they owe clients.
ND allows a broker to appoint one agent to exclusively represent the Seller and a different agent to exclusively represent the Buyer โ even within the same brokerage. This eliminates dual agency in in-house transactions. Knowledge of one appointed agent is NOT imputed to the other.
A broker working with a buyer as a customer but representing the seller (listed with a different brokerage). The buyer is NOT represented โ they should be aware their agent is working for the seller.
ND limits agency in important ways: agents must disclose if a party doesn't intend to perform; knowledge of one agent in a brokerage is NOT imputed to another (unlike MN); and agents are not required to independently verify third-party statements.
Buyer Representation Contract: Exclusive
MN:BRC:E โ 4 pages โ Approved by the Minnesota Association of REALTORSยฎ (Rev. 8/2025)
Formalizes the relationship between Vision Realty and the Buyer. Gives Vision Realty the exclusive right to represent the Buyer in purchasing property. Defines compensation, property types, and the agent's obligations.
Key Fields
Always "Vision Realty" โ pre-filled on our templates.
Start date and end date. Typically 90โ180 days. End date triggers the 72-hour list requirement โ within 72 hours of expiration, broker must give buyer a written list of properties shown, which preserves the commission tail.
The percentage Vision Realty earns when Buyer closes. This amount will be offset by any compensation received from the seller โ Buyer only pays the difference if Seller pays less.
What type of property is Buyer looking for? Check all that apply. Vision Realty's template defaults to all types checked โ modify as appropriate for the specific buyer.
Buyer's choice for who arranges closing. Vision Realty defaults to having Broker arrange closing services.
Vision Realty charges a $399 transaction fee on the buyer side as well. This is listed in the "OTHER" section of the Buyer Representation Contract.
The form warns buyers: going through an open house unaccompanied by their agent, or signing a purchase agreement through another broker or FSBO seller, may require the buyer to pay the FULL compensation to Vision Realty out of pocket. Make sure buyers understand this before they go to any open houses.
Exclusive Right to Represent Buyer Agreement
NDAR โ 4 pages โ (Rev. 4/2026)
Unlike MN (which requires it before writing an offer), North Dakota law requires a signed written buyer representation agreement before showing a property. Do not skip this step.
Key Differences from MN
Same 3% default. The ND form has more detailed compensation options including a retainer fee (which Vision Realty does not typically charge) and a transaction fee.
Just as with the Seller listing agreement, Buyer can accept or decline Appointed Agency. Vision Realty defaults to accepting Appointed Agency, which protects Buyer in in-house transactions.
ND's buyer rep specifically warns buyers that properties may be under video/audio surveillance, and it may not always be disclosed. Remind buyers to be mindful during showings.
Vision Realty's $399 transaction fee applies on the buyer side for ND transactions as well.
Purchase Agreement
MN:PA โ 12 pages โ Approved by the Minnesota Association of REALTORSยฎ (Rev. 8/2025)
The Purchase Agreement (PA) is the legal contract for the sale and purchase of real property. Once fully executed (signed by all parties and delivered), it is a legally binding contract. Every blank matters โ take your time and get it right.
Page 1 โ Parties, Earnest Money & Property
Full legal name(s) of all buyers. Exactly as it will appear on the deed. If taking title in a trust or LLC, use the trust/LLC name and have the authorizing documents ready.
The deposit Buyer makes to show good faith. Typically 1โ3% of purchase price for MN. Must be delivered to the listing broker (or specified earnest money holder) within 2 Business Days of Final Acceptance Date. Deposited into trust account within 3 Business Days of receipt or FAD, whichever is later.
Full address AND the legal description โ pull from the MLS, county records, or the listing contract. Must be precise โ this defines exactly what is being purchased.
Inclusions & Exclusions (Lines 16โ36)
The MN PA has an extensive list of auto-included items: garden bulbs, sheds, playsets, storm windows, window coverings, ceiling fans, garage door openers, smoke detectors, all built-in appliances, integrated home automation systems, and more. Read this list carefully with sellers.
List any additional personal property that conveys (e.g., riding lawn mower, patio furniture, refrigerator in garage) AND explicitly list any excluded items (e.g., dining room chandelier, backyard playset, propane tank).
Purchase Price & Financing (Pages 1โ3)
Write out in words AND numbers. The percentage breakdown: cash % + mortgage % + other financing % = 100%.
3.5% CASH (includes earnest money)
96.5% MORTGAGE FINANCING
The specific date by which closing must occur. Discuss with Buyer's lender before writing the offer โ FHA/VA loans typically need 45+ days; conventional can sometimes close in 30. Never pick a date without confirming with the lender.
Check all that apply: Conventional, DVA (VA), FHA, USDA Rural Development, or Other. The loan type affects escape clauses, seller-paid fees, and appraisal requirements.
Maximum loan term (typically 30 years) and maximum interest rate. Don't lock in a rate so low that any realistic rate will cancel the deal, but don't set it so high it's meaningless. Coordinate with the buyer's lender.
Two options: (1) Simple โ if financing fails, deal is canceled and earnest money is refunded. (2) Written Statement (pre-approval) method โ Buyer must provide a written statement from their lender by a specific date. Vision Realty's template defaults to Option 1 (simple cancelation with refund to buyer).
Maximum amount Seller agrees to spend on repairs required by the lender's appraisal. If repairs exceed this, Seller can negotiate, make them anyway, or cancel.
Seller's Contributions & Inspections (Pages 4โ5)
Amount Seller agrees to pay toward Buyer's closing costs, title fees, prepaids, etc. Common in buyer's markets or when Buyer needs help with cash to close. There are limits per loan type (FHA max 6%, conventional varies by LTV).
Buyer elects to have an inspection. PA is contingent on the inspection results. Inspection Period is the number of calendar days from Final Acceptance Date.
Real Estate Taxes & Special Assessments (Pages 5โ6)
Taxes are typically prorated to the date of closing โ Seller pays their share, Buyer pays theirs. Vision Realty's template defaults to "PRORATED FROM DAY OF CLOSING" for Buyer and "PRORATED TO DAY OF CLOSING" for Seller.
There are multiple assessment categories: deferred taxes (Green Acres), certified installments, other levied assessments, and pending assessments. Each has different default options. Vision's template: Seller pays deferred taxes, installments prorated, buyer assumes levied and pending.
Page 9 โ Sewer & Well / Buyer's Broker Compensation
Seller warrants the property's connection to city sewer and city water (YES or NO each). Also must confirm if there is or isn't a well or subsurface sewage system.
This is where Buyer's broker compensation is negotiated in the Purchase Agreement (post-NAR settlement). Seller agrees to pay buyer's broker this amount at closing โ separate from Seller's contribution to buyer's closing costs.
Page 12 โ Final Signatures
Seller must certify whether they are or are not a foreign person. This certification survives closing.
The Final Acceptance Date (FAD) is the date the FULLY EXECUTED Purchase Agreement is DELIVERED to all parties. This is not the date someone signed โ it's the date the last signature was obtained AND the signed copy was delivered. All contingency timelines start from the FAD.
Purchase Agreement
NDAR โ 10 pages โ (Rev. 4/2026)
The ND PA uses calendar days throughout (vs. MN's mix of calendar and business days). Contingencies are initialed by BOTH parties in a table format. The financing section explicitly lists all loan types on one line. Minerals are addressed separately. FinCEN reporting is mentioned. Seller warrants connection to city sewer/water/well/rural water.
Major Field Differences
The ND PA explicitly states it is governed by ND law and any legal actions must be filed in the county where the property is located. This matters if a dispute arises after closing.
ND earnest money is delivered to the Listing Broker (or specified holder) and deposited per ND Century Code. Vision Realty's template defaults to EFT/ACH delivery and delivery to Listing Broker.
In the ND PA, buyer broker compensation is stated clearly at the top of page 2 โ not buried in page 9 like the MN form.
Each contingency in the ND PA must be initialed by BOTH Buyer and Seller, with a deadline date. This two-party initial requirement provides better clarity and enforceability than MN's approach.
ND law: minerals transfer with the surface estate by default UNLESS specifically excluded. If Seller reserves mineral rights, check the box and note it. Buyers should seek independent legal counsel before final acceptance regarding mineral rights.
Seller warrants they will disconnect or discontinue access to all internet-connected devices (smart thermostats, cameras, doorbells, smart locks) by possession date. This is a newer provision on both MN and ND forms โ important for smart home properties.
Seller warrants the property's connection status to city sewer, city water, well, and rural water. Each must be checked YES, NO, or (for sewer) PRIVATE. Vision's template shows a city property: City Sewer YES, City Water YES, Well NO.
Addendum to Purchase Agreement: Counteroffer
MN:APA:C โ 1 page โ (Rev. 8/2025)
When a Seller wants to reject the Buyer's offer and propose different terms, they use this Counteroffer Addendum. All original PA terms remain unless specifically changed here. Only the FINAL counteroffer addendum is attached to the PA.
How to Complete
List the date of the original Purchase Agreement and the names of Seller and Buyer exactly as they appear in the PA.
Check only the terms being changed. Common counteroffer changes:
โข Purchase price (with new FHA escape clause amount if FHA)
โข Earnest money amount
โข Closing date
โข Seller's contribution to buyer's costs
โข Seller's contribution to buyer's broker compensation
โข Other โ write in any custom changes
Set a specific date AND time for the counteroffer to expire. Typically 24โ48 hours. After this time, the counteroffer is void and cannot be accepted.
"The Final Acceptance Date is the date on which the fully executed Purchase Agreement is delivered." All timelines in the PA begin from this date. Note it carefully on the signed document.
Counteroffer Addendum
NDAR โ 1 page โ (Rev. 7/2025)
ND's counteroffer uses checkboxes for common changes (price, earnest money, closing date, possession, seller's contribution, buyer broker comp). Simpler format with the same key principle โ all other PA terms remain unchanged.
Counteroffer Options (Lines 10โ24)
New purchase price. If FHA, also update the FHA escape clause price to match.
Seller can counter with a different buyer broker comp than what was offered in the PA. This is a negotiable term in every offer.
Any terms not covered by the checkboxes can be written in โ inspection contingency changes, personal property, repairs to be completed, etc.
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (MN)
TLX:SALE โ 2 pages โ Federal requirement for pre-1978 homes (Rev. 8/2025)
ANY home built before January 1, 1978 requires this disclosure. This is a FEDERAL law requirement (42 U.S.C. 4852(d)), not just a state requirement. Failing to provide this is a federal violation.
Completing the Form
Seller checks ONE: (A) No knowledge of lead-based paint hazards, OR (B) Has knowledge and has provided all available records. If B, list and attach all documents.
Buyer must: (1) confirm receipt of information, (2) confirm receipt of the "Protect Your Family from Lead" pamphlet, and (3) choose between waiving OR taking the 10-day inspection opportunity.
The real estate licensee (that's you) certifies they informed Seller of their obligations and is aware of their responsibility to ensure compliance. Both the listing agent AND buyer's agent sign.
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (ND)
NDAR โ 1 page โ Federal requirement for pre-1978 homes (Rev. 8/2025)
ND uses a standalone 1-page form rather than an addendum to the PA. Same federal law applies. Same requirements โ Seller disclosure, Buyer acknowledgment (with initials), Agent acknowledgment, and Certification of Accuracy by all parties.
Notable ND Difference
ND's form requires Buyer to initial 3 separate acknowledgments: (1) received copies of information, (2) received or NOT received information on lead hazards, and (3) received the "Protect Your Family" pamphlet. Each line must be initialed.
Same as MN โ agent certifies they informed Seller of obligations and are aware of their compliance responsibility.
Wire Fraud Alert
MN-WFA โ 1 page โ Provided at listing (Rev. 8/2018)
Real estate transactions are prime targets for wire fraud. Criminals hack email accounts and impersonate agents, lenders, or closing agents to redirect wire transfers. A buyer could wire their entire down payment to a criminal's account. This is one of the most devastating things that can happen in a transaction.
Key Points to Review with Clients
Criminals can (1) hack email and redirect wire instructions, (2) send fraudulent emails impersonating the agent/lender/title company, and (3) call claiming they have "revised wiring instructions."
Before wiring ANY funds: Call the intended recipient directly using a phone number you looked up independently (NOT from an email). Confirm the exact wire routing and account numbers verbally before wiring.
(1) Call your bank immediately โ there may be a short window to recall the wire. (2) Notify your closing agent and real estate licensee. (3) File a complaint at IC3.gov (Internet Crime Complaint Center).
Collect signatures from all parties at the listing appointment AND at the time the Purchase Agreement is signed. Both Buyer and Seller should sign.
Compensation Disclosure to Buyer/Tenant
MN:DS:CDB โ 1 page โ (Rev. 8/2025)
Required BEFORE Buyer signs a Purchase Agreement. The licensee representing or assisting Buyer must disclose in writing the exact compensation they will receive from any source. This is part of the post-NAR settlement transparency requirements.
Key Fields
Three possible sources: From Listing Broker (cooperative comp through MLS), From Seller (direct), From Buyer/Tenant (direct). Check all that apply and fill in the percentage or dollar amount for each.
From Seller: 2.7% of sale price (per PA)
From Buyer: $399 transaction fee
Buyer acknowledges receipt before signing any purchase offer. Keep this in the transaction file.
Buyer's Broker Compensation Disclosure
NDAR โ 1 page โ (Rev. 6/2024)
Required before Buyer signs a Purchase Agreement. Part of the Exclusive Right to Represent Buyer Agreement โ typically completed at the same time. ND's form is slightly more detailed than MN's, with options for bonuses and transaction fees.
Key Provision
"BROKER MAY NOT RECEIVE COMPENSATION FROM ANY SOURCE THAT EXCEEDS THE AMOUNT OR RATE AGREED TO BY BUYER(S)." This means if Seller pays MORE than what was agreed to in the Buyer Rep Agreement, Vision Realty must refund the excess to the Buyer.
From Seller(s) or Seller's Broker: โ โ % of purchase price
From Buyer(s)/Tenant(s): โ โ Flat Fee: $399.00
Vision Realty Standard Defaults
Memorize these. Every form we fill out uses these defaults unless a client requests otherwise.
All of these can be changed based on client needs and negotiation. A Seller can request a different commission rate. A Buyer can negotiate their representation terms. The defaults exist to make our process efficient โ but always discuss with your client and broker if something needs to change.
Glossary
Plain-English definitions for terms you'll encounter in MN and ND real estate transactions.
Transaction Checklist
Step-by-step checklist for Seller and Buyer transactions. Check off each item as you complete it โ your progress saves automatically.
Select Seller or Buyer transaction, optionally name the transaction, and work through each section. Click any item to mark it complete. Click "New Transaction" to start fresh. Your progress is saved in your browser.
What Form Do I Need?
Answer a few questions and get the exact list of forms required for your specific transaction. No more guessing.
Timeline Calculator
Enter the Final Acceptance Date and get every transaction deadline automatically calculated. Never miss a deadline.
Deadlines are calculated from Vision Realty standard defaults. Your specific PA may have different terms. When in doubt, check the actual contract language and consult your broker.
MN vs ND Side-by-Side Comparison
Key differences between Minnesota and North Dakota real estate rules, forms, and requirements. Filter to focus on what matters most.
New Agent Onboarding Course
A structured learning path covering everything a new Vision Realty agent needs to know. Work through each module at your own pace โ your progress saves automatically.
Form Fill Simulator
Practice filling in real form fields using realistic transaction scenarios. Get instant feedback on every answer with tips and corrections.