Can you explain the legal implications of a repurchase agreement?

OK. You need to decide what you would like the terms to be and discuss them with her. A contract is always best and easier to get done when both parties are in agreement with the terms and what the document should say. Once you have done that, then you should seek to engage with an attorney to assist you with the actual document and the language. If you you would to engage my services where I would draft your agreement and advise you, you can contact me on the contracts counsel website and I would be happy to assist.

Many purchase agreements do include non-competes, which are typically geographically limited and limited in terms of duration. The implication for the seller is straight forward. As a practial matter, the buyer benefits from a non-compete because it limits competion from the seller for business within the community in which the buyer will operate following the purchase of the business, or competition from the seller over the same potential customers, which aids profitability.

At the closing of the purchase, you will likely sign a Bill of Sale tranferring the assets of the business, and an Assignment and Assumpition agreement transferring or assigning any rights and responsibilites related to any contracts to which the business is a party to. The purchase agreement will likely have a due diligence period in which the seller provides access to the buyer to examine the books of the business and assets including any contracts related thereto and a provision allowing the buyer to cancel or terminate the sale within a certain period time following expiration of the due diligence period.

A non-compete clause is potentially enforceable in this situation. 1. It must be part of an otherwise enforceable agreement. 2. It cannot impose a restriction longer than 2 years 3. It must be reasonable in geographic scope Without reviewing the Business Purchase Agreement and your proposed non-compete clause, I cannot comment on the validity of your proposed non-compete. However, if you would like me to review the Agreement and/or provide assistance in negotiating the agreement, please let me know. Lorraine Coats, Esq.

Hi there, No—a contractor cannot legally change the terms of a renovation contract without your consent. A contract is a mutual agreement, and any changes to the scope of work, payment terms, or timeline must be agreed upon by both parties to be valid and enforceable. That said, here is what you should consider: Your Rights as a Homeowner: No Unilateral Modifications Allowed: Contractors do not have the legal authority to raise prices or alter timelines without your express written consent. Any legitimate changes should be presented as a change order—a document detailing the proposed adjustments that you must approve before work continues. Assess Whether the Change Serves Your Best Interest: While unexpected changes can be frustrating, it is important to consider why the contractor is proposing modifications. Sometimes, issues arise during renovation that were not visible or discoverable when the original contract was signed—such as hidden structural damage, plumbing defects, or code violations. In these cases, completing the job correctly may require addressing these issues now, which can impact both the timeline and total cost. Though inconvenient, these adjustments may ultimately benefit you by ensuring the job is done thoroughly and avoids future complications. Contractor Must Clearly Justify the Change: If additional work is necessary, the contractor should be able to clearly explain: What was discovered Why it was not known initially Why the original scope of work cannot be completed without addressing it This explanation should be provided in writing along with an updated scope and pricing breakdown. You Still Control the Agreement: Even if the contractor makes a reasonable request, you are not obligated to accept. You can negotiate the terms, request a second opinion, or consult an attorney before moving forward. You May Have Legal Remedies if the Contractor Proceeds Without Approval: If the contractor insists on changing terms without your consent or threatens to stop work, they may be in breach of contract, and you may have legal grounds to: Withhold payment Terminate the contract Recover costs associated with hiring a replacement contractor A good contractor communicates openly, presents clear documentation, and works with you—not against you. If you need help reviewing the contract or assessing the proposed changes, I would be happy to assist. Best regards, Jerome Lucas Newell, Esq. Home Renovation & Consumer Protection Attorney