Difference Between 'Sale' and 'Contract for Sale'
A sale and a contract for sale are two distinct concepts under the Transfer of Property Act, 1882 (TPA), primarily governed by Sections 54 and 55. The key difference lies in the transfer of ownership—while a sale results in immediate transfer of ownership, a contract for sale is merely an agreement to transfer ownership in the future.
1. Meaning of Sale
According to Section 54 of the TPA, a sale is a transfer of ownership in exchange for a price paid or promised. It involves:
- Absolute transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer.
- Consideration (money) is involved.
- A registered instrument is required if the property is worth ₹100 or more.
Example: If A sells his house to B for ₹50 lakhs and executes a sale deed, it is a sale as ownership is immediately transferred.
2. Meaning of Contract for Sale
A contract for sale is an agreement between a seller and a buyer, where the seller agrees to transfer the property at a future date upon fulfillment of conditions.
- It does not transfer ownership immediately.
- It creates a right to obtain ownership in the future.
- If the seller refuses to sell, the buyer can seek specific performance under the Specific Relief Act, 1963.
Example: If A agrees to sell his house to B for ₹50 lakhs, and they sign an agreement specifying that the final transfer will take place in three months upon payment, it is a contract for sale.
3. Key Differences Between Sale and Contract for Sale
Basis | Sale | Contract for Sale |
---|---|---|
Definition | Immediate transfer of ownership of property. | A promise to transfer ownership in the future. |
Ownership | Buyer becomes absolute owner immediately. | Buyer does not get ownership immediately. |
Possession | Generally, possession is handed over to the buyer. | Possession may or may not be given to the buyer. |
Legal Effect | Creates absolute rights in favor of the buyer. | Creates contractual rights but no immediate ownership. |
Registration | Compulsory if the property is worth ₹100 or more. | Not compulsory, but advisable. |
Right to Sue | The buyer can sue for possession and ownership. | The buyer can only sue for specific performance. |
Risk and Liability | After sale, risk of loss passes to the buyer. | Risk remains with the seller until ownership is transferred. |
Example | A executes a sale deed and transfers ownership to B. | A and B sign an agreement to sell, but transfer is to happen later. |
4. Conclusion
A sale results in immediate and absolute transfer of ownership, while a contract for sale is merely an agreement that creates a future obligation to transfer ownership. If the seller fails to execute the sale, the buyer can seek specific performance but does not get ownership automatically.
Comments
Post a Comment