“I received a counteroffer but no new expiration date. Is the original date still valid?”
August 13, 2026
*Please note: Any questions regarding Legal Hotline Spotlights should be submitted via the Virginia REALTORS® Legal Hotline. Our attorneys are unable to respond to questions through our comments section.
Q: “My buyers put in an offer with an expiration date, and the sellers countered back by changing some terms but not changing the expiration date. Is that date still valid?”
A: Most likely yes. If a counteroffer only changes one or two terms but is silent on everything else, the remaining terms of the offer are still in full force and effect. That means that the original deadline is still ticking even though the sellers have countered. The parties can either execute a ratified contract within the original deadline or create an amendment that extends or removes the offer acceptance deadline.
Have a question about this article? Submit it to the Legal Hotline!
The Legal Hotline is a member benefit that has been supporting members for over 25 years. Our team of lawyers answers your important questions about real estate transactions quickly and accurately (usually within three business hours!).
Here are some tips to help make the Legal Hotline work for you!
You might also like…
HUD Update: What REALTORS® Can Say About School Data
By Ryan Leonard - August 5, 2026
Suppose you are representing buyers who would like for you to provide them with education data on the schools in few different neighborhoods. A question that often arises in such a situation… Read More
“Is it legal to list ‘TBD’ as the Escrow Agent in an offer?”
By Santiago Montalvo - August 4, 2026
*Please note: Any questions regarding Legal Hotline Spotlights should be submitted via the Virginia REALTORS® Legal Hotline. Our attorneys are unable to respond to questions through our comments section. Q:… Read More
“As the listing agent, do I need a signed representation agreement to show a prospective buyer the property?”
By Ryan Leonard - July 30, 2026
*Please note: Any questions regarding Legal Hotline Spotlights should be submitted via the Virginia REALTORS® Legal Hotline. Our attorneys are unable to respond to questions through our comments section. Q: “I am… Read More