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Real estate glossaryNational exam concept

Specific performance

Specific performance is an equitable remedy ordering a party to carry out a contract.

Exam area: Contracts

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What does “specific performance” mean in real estate?

Specific performance is an equitable remedy ordering a party to carry out a contract. Courts may consider it in real estate because each parcel is treated as unique and money damages may be inadequate.

How is “specific performance” different from the closest wrong answer?

Specific performance enforces the promised transfer. Rescission unwinds the contract, while liquidated damages apply the amount the parties agreed would address a breach.

What is the Georgia-specific rule?

The national contract rule applies on the Georgia exam. Availability in an actual dispute depends on the contract, the parties' performance, equitable defenses, and a court order.

Worked exam example

Scenario

A seller refuses to close after signing an enforceable contract for a unique parcel. The buyer asks a court to require the conveyance rather than award only money.

What is the most common exam trap?

Trap correction

It is not an automatic self-help remedy. A party seeks it from a court and must satisfy equitable requirements.

Original exam check

Apply the definition

A seller signs an enforceable contract to sell a waterfront lot, then refuses to close because a higher offer arrived. The buyer wants the lot itself, not money. What remedy should the buyer ask a court for?

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Recommended next complete lesson

Continue with Contracts complete lesson. It places this term inside the full rule, worked examples, exam traps, and mixed practice required for mastery.