Addendum
Also known as: Rider, Supplement, Amendment
A separate document attached to a purchase agreement that adds new terms, modifies existing terms, or overrides provisions in the main contract.
Detailed Explanation
An addendum (plural: addenda) is a document that becomes part of your purchase agreement. It can introduce new requirements, change existing provisions, or override language in the main contract.
Builder contracts often include multiple addenda — sometimes adding 20 or more pages. Common addenda cover warranty terms, design center selections, financing requirements, HOA disclosures, and construction timelines.
If the main contract and an addendum conflict, the addendum typically controls. This means a buyer-friendly provision in the main agreement could be overridden by a more restrictive addendum.
In Your Contract
Addenda are usually listed at the end of the main purchase agreement or attached as separate documents. Look for language like "The following addenda are incorporated by reference" or "This addendum supersedes any conflicting provision in the Agreement."
Key Points
- 1Read every addendum, not just the main purchase agreement.
- 2Addenda can override the main contract — what the addendum says wins.
- 3Some of the most important clauses may be in addenda, not the main document.
- 4Ask for all addenda before signing day so you have time to review.
- 5An addendum is different from an amendment — addenda are attached at signing, while amendments modify the contract after it has been signed.
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