When a Florida real estate deal takes a wrong turn, the financial stakes can be high. Disputes over earnest money deposits, undisclosed property defects, or failure to deliver marketable title can stall closings, strain relationships, and jeopardize your investment.
At The Law Office of Carlos M. Amor, P.A., we focus on protecting your rights in the most common—and most damaging—real estate contract disputes in Fort Lauderdale.
Attorney Carlos M. Amor has over 15 years of experience representing buyers, sellers, and investors in Florida real estate matters. He understands the unique pressures and legal complexities involved in high-stakes property transactions. From investigating the facts to negotiating settlements or litigating in court, he provides strategic, results-driven representation tailored to your case.
Why Choose Us?
Choosing our firm means you get:
- Free initial consultations by phone, video, or in person
- Services tailored to your needs and the specifics of your dispute
- 24/7 availability for urgent issues
Your real estate matter is a priority. We work quickly and strategically to protect your investment and reach a resolution as efficiently as possible.
Common Real Estate Contract Disputes We Handle in Fort Lauderdale
While many real estate conflicts can arise, our firm focuses exclusively on three critical areas:
- Earnest Money Deposit Disputes
- Undisclosed Property Defects
- Failure to Deliver Marketable Title
By limiting our practice to these dispute types, we provide highly focused and effective legal solutions.
Earnest Money Deposit Disputes
Earnest money is a good-faith deposit made by the buyer, typically held in escrow until closing. It represents a significant financial commitment—often thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.
Disputes often arise when a deal falls through and both parties claim rights to the deposit. Common situations include:
- A buyer backs out, claiming a contractual contingency (such as inspection or financing) was not met
- A seller refuses to return the deposit, alleging the buyer breached the agreement
- Conflicting interpretations of inspection results or repair obligations
- Missed deadlines leading to claims of default by either party
Because these disputes hinge on the exact contract language, timelines, and supporting documentation, attention to detail is essential. Attorney Carlos M. Amor examines every clause, email, inspection report, and escrow instruction to determine the rightful owner of the funds.
We aim to resolve these disputes through negotiation when possible, avoiding unnecessary legal costs. But if needed, we will take decisive legal action to protect your financial interests.
Undisclosed Property Defects
Florida law requires sellers to disclose any known defects that materially affect a property’s value or safety. Failure to do so—whether intentional or accidental—can lead to costly legal battles.
Examples of common undisclosed defects include:
- Mold, termite infestations, or water damage
- Structural defects, such as foundation cracks or compromised framing
- Roof leaks or severe deterioration
- Unpermitted renovations or additions that violate building codes
- Unsafe or malfunctioning electrical or plumbing systems
When a buyer discovers such issues after signing a contract—or even after closing—it can result in significant repair costs and loss of value.
Attorney Carlos M. Amor helps buyers investigate the defect’s history, determine whether the seller knew about it, and pursue remedies. Possible outcomes include contract cancellation, negotiated repair payments, or damages awarded in court.
For sellers wrongly accused of hiding defects, we build a defense based on disclosure forms, inspection records, and proof that the defect was unknown or disclosed in good faith.
Because these cases often require expert inspections, legal analysis, and careful documentation, having an attorney with deep real estate litigation experience is key.
Failure to Deliver Marketable Title
A “marketable” title is one that’s free from legal defects, liens, or claims that would prevent a buyer from taking clear ownership. Providing marketable title is a standard requirement in most Florida real estate contracts.
Title disputes can arise when:
- Outstanding mortgages, tax liens, or contractor liens appear late in the transaction
- Easements or encroachments were not disclosed before contract signing
- Boundary disputes arise after a survey
- Errors in the chain of title (e.g., missing signatures, improperly recorded deeds) are discovered
When a seller cannot provide marketable title by the agreed closing date, buyers may have grounds to cancel the deal, reclaim their earnest money deposit, and pursue damages.
Attorney Carlos M. Amor works to identify the title defect, assess whether it can be cured, and enforce your rights. In some cases, quick negotiation with lienholders or corrective legal action can resolve the issue without delaying closing. In others, litigation is the only option to protect your investment.
How We Resolve Real Estate Contract Disputes
Not all disputes end in litigation. We employ a range of strategies to reach favorable outcomes, including:
Communication
Sometimes disputes can be resolved simply through direct and effective dialogue between parties. Attorney Amor can help you communicate clearly with the other side to explore resolution before costs escalate.
Negotiation
With 15 years of experience, attorney Carlos M. Amor is a skilled negotiator who can work toward a settlement that protects your interests while avoiding drawn-out legal battles.
Mediation
Mediation brings both parties together with a neutral third party to find a mutually acceptable solution. In some contracts, mediation is required before filing a lawsuit.
Litigation
When negotiation and mediation fail, we are fully prepared to litigate. Attorney Amor is an experienced courtroom advocate who will fight to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
How a Fort Lauderdale Real Estate Attorney Can Help
Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or investor, our firm can assist you with:
- Reviewing and interpreting your real estate contract
- Gathering and analyzing inspection reports, escrow records, and title documents
- Advising you on your legal options and likely outcomes
- Representing you in negotiations, mediation, or court
- Protecting your rights from the first sign of a dispute through final resolution
If you’re searching for a trusted Fort Lauderdale real estate lawyer with deep experience in contract disputes, attorney Carlos M. Amor offers the knowledge and dedication to guide you toward the best possible outcome. The earlier we get involved, the more tools we have to resolve your dispute efficiently.
FAQs – Fort Lauderdale Real Estate Contract Disputes
Do all contracts require mediation before court?
Not always. Some contracts specify mediation or arbitration before litigation. We can review your agreement to determine the proper procedure.
How quickly should I act if I have a dispute?
Immediately. Waiting can cause you to miss important deadlines or weaken your legal position.
Can reviewing a contract beforehand prevent disputes?
Yes. Having an attorney review your contract before signing can prevent misunderstandings and reduce the risk of future disputes.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Contract Dispute Lawyer
If you are facing an earnest money deposit dispute, undisclosed property defect, or marketable title issue, you need an attorney who focuses specifically on these matters.
Attorney Carlos M. Amor brings over 15 years of real estate law experience and a deep understanding of Florida’s legal landscape to every case.
Call The Law Office of Carlos M. Amor, P.A. at 954-453-7200 for a free consultation by phone, video, or in person. Protect your investment and your property rights today.
ATTORNEY CARLOS M. AMOR
Carlos M. Amor is a skilled and experienced attorney and real estate broker. His legal practice in South Florida focuses on real estate litigation, real estate investments, tax deed and foreclosure auction purchases, traditional real estate transactions, short sales, foreclosure defense, and civil litigation. Carlos thinks “outside the box” and takes a practical approach to finding solutions that benefit his clients. [ ATTORNEY BIO ]
