Is the deposit returned if the reservation is cancelled?

It depends on the contract terms. If the buyer withdraws without the seller's fault, the deposit is typically forfeited. If the seller fails to perform, it is returned.

Can a reservation agreement be signed electronically?

Yes — a reservation agreement can be e-signed. Only the actual transfer of ownership (title deed) requires officially certified signatures.

Can a reservation agreement also be a binding commitment to buy?

Yes — if it contains all essential purchase terms (subject, price, parties), a reservation agreement can also be a preliminary contract or even the purchase contract itself.

What if the seller sells the property to someone else after the reservation is signed?

The seller must return the deposit and compensate for damages (lost opportunity, legal costs). If the contract includes a contractual penalty, the buyer is entitled to that too.

Commercial

Property reservation

Property reservation contract

A binding property reservation with a deposit.

Start free Features

GDPR compliant · EU-hosted

A reservation agreement reduces client drop-out by 55 %

The average real estate transaction involves 3–5 documents — digitalisation saves 2 hours

98 % of real estate disputes arise from unclear deposit-return conditions

For real estate — binding reservation with a deposit, deadline for the purchase contract and termination terms.

Legal context

A property reservation agreement is governed by general contract law. In Slovakia, the contractual penalty must be agreed in writing (§ 544 Civil Code). The transfer of ownership itself requires officially certified signatures.

Civil Code § 544 — contractual penalty; transfer of ownership requires officially certified signatures

Legal basis & glossary

When to use a Property reservation

Before signing a property purchase agreement
When a client expresses interest in a specific property
To secure the buyer's exclusive interest during due diligence
For pre-sales of developer projects

What you get

Deposit and refund
Purchase-contract deadline
Penalties
Mobile signing

How it works

From idea to signature

Deposit and refund

Purchase-contract deadline

Penalties

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Property reservation

Yes, if it contains a commitment to buy and sell under specific terms, it is binding on both parties. A breach entitles the other party to the contractual penalty.