What Is a Purchase Contract Addendum in NH Real Estate?

🏡 What Is a Purchase Contract Addendum in NH Real Estate?

During the homebuying process in New Hampshire, situations can change — and when they do, a contract addendum is often required to formally update the Purchase & Sales Agreement. Whether you’re buying or selling in Plymouth, Campton, Thornton, or anywhere in Central NH, understanding how addendums work helps keep your transaction legally clear and on track.

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What Is an Addendum?

A purchase contract addendum is a written document that modifies, adds to, or clarifies the original Purchase & Sales Agreement.

It becomes part of the legally binding contract once all parties sign it.

Addendums help avoid confusion and ensure both sides agree on changes in writing, not verbally.

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Common Reasons for Addendums in NH

Buyers and sellers often use addendums to:

✔ Extend inspection, appraisal, or financing deadlines

✔ Modify the closing date

✔ Change the purchase price

✔ Add credits or seller concessions

✔ Update repair requests and agreements

✔ Include additional terms not originally listed

✔ Address issues found during inspections

If it alters the original contract in any way, it typically must be documented with an addendum.

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Addendum vs. Amendment — What’s the Difference?

This causes confusion for many NH buyers and sellers.

Addendum: Adds new terms or information to the contract

Amendment: Changes or removes terms already in the contract

In practice, NH agents and attorneys sometimes use the words interchangeably, but they serve slightly different purposes.

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Are Addendums Legally Binding?

Yes — once all parties sign an addendum, it becomes a legal part of the contract.

If one side fails to follow the updated terms, they may be in breach of contract.

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Why Addendums Matter in NH Real Estate

Addendums protect everyone involved by:

✔ Keeping the contract accurate and up to date

✔ Documenting changes so nothing is misunderstood

✔ Creating a written trail for lenders, attorneys, and title companies

✔ Preventing disputes later in the process

A clean, well-documented contract helps prevent delays and surprises at closing.

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Bottom Line

A purchase contract addendum keeps NH real estate transactions accurate, flexible, and legally sound. Whether you need to extend a deadline or update a key term, an addendum ensures all parties agree in writing — protecting both buyers and sellers.

Jim Johnson — Real Estate Agent

58 NH Route 25A

Wentworth, NH 03282

P: (857) 249-7392

W: www.JimJohnsonRealEstateAgent.com

Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services

Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com

Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com