Key Takeaways
- Missouri does not mandate specific promulgated contract forms like some states
- Real estate associations provide standard contract forms for member use
- Licensees should not draft contract language—refer clients to attorneys for legal provisions
- Addenda are used to modify or supplement the main contract
- All contract changes should be initialed by all parties
Last updated: January 2026
Missouri Contract Forms and Addenda
Missouri does not require the use of specific promulgated contract forms like some states. However, standard forms are commonly used in practice.
Contract Form Sources
Real Estate Association Forms
Standard contract forms are typically provided by:
| Source | Use |
|---|---|
| Missouri REALTORS | Member associations |
| Local associations | Regional customization |
| Brokerages | Company-specific forms |
Form Usage
| Form Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Residential Sales Contract | Standard home purchase |
| Commercial Contract | Business property sales |
| Vacant Land Contract | Unimproved property |
| Lease Agreement | Rental properties |
Licensee Limitations
What Licensees CAN Do
| Action | Example |
|---|---|
| Fill in blanks | Names, dates, prices |
| Check boxes | Select options |
| Use standard forms | Approved contracts |
| Add factual information | Property descriptions |
What Licensees CANNOT Do
| Prohibited Action | Reason |
|---|---|
| Draft legal language | Unauthorized practice of law |
| Modify printed terms | Legal document alteration |
| Give legal advice | Not licensed attorney |
| Interpret contract provisions | Legal opinion |
Exam Tip: When in doubt, refer clients to an attorney. Drafting legal provisions constitutes unauthorized practice of law.
Using Addenda
Addenda are additional forms that supplement or modify the main contract.
Common Addenda
| Addendum | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Financing Contingency | Loan approval terms |
| Inspection Contingency | Property inspection rights |
| Sale of Other Property | Contingent on selling current home |
| Seller Disclosure | Property condition disclosure |
| Lead-Based Paint | Required for pre-1978 homes |
| HOA/Condo | Association requirements |
Addendum Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Reference in contract | Must be listed or checked |
| Signed by all parties | Same as main contract |
| Dated | When executed |
| Attached | Become part of contract |
When Addenda Conflict
| Principle | Effect |
|---|---|
| Addenda supersede | Addendum terms override contract |
| Later prevails | Most recent change controls |
| Specifics prevail | Specific terms override general |
Amendments
Purpose
Amendments change an existing contract:
| Use Amendment For | Example |
|---|---|
| Changing terms | New closing date |
| Correcting errors | Fix address |
| Adding provisions | New contingency |
| Removing terms | Waive contingency |
Amendment Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Written form | Must be in writing |
| Both parties sign | Mutual agreement |
| Reference original | Identify contract |
| Specific changes | Clear modifications |
Key Point: Oral amendments to real estate contracts are generally NOT enforceable under the Statute of Frauds.
Loading diagram...
Test Your Knowledge
What should a Missouri licensee do when a client asks for a custom contract provision?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
When an addendum conflicts with the main contract, which takes precedence?
A
B
C
D