Understanding the Cure Period Notice

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Introduction

When buying or selling a home in Arizona, you’ll encounter numerous legal documents and forms designed to protect all parties involved in the transaction. Among these, the Cure Period Notice stands as a critical safeguard that helps keep real estate deals on track when issues arise. Think of it as a formal “fix it” request that gives the other party one last chance to fulfill their contractual obligations before more serious actions are taken.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Arizona Association of REALTORS® Cure Period Notice. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, seasoned investor, or real estate professional, understanding how and when to use this document can help you navigate complications that might otherwise derail your transaction.

What Is a Cure Period Notice?

The Cure Period Notice is a standardized form created by the Arizona Association of REALTORS® that formally notifies another party in a real estate transaction about their failure to comply with terms specified in the purchase contract. This document serves as an official warning, giving the non-compliant party a defined period—typically three days—to fix or “cure” the issue before the other party can exercise contractual remedies, including canceling the contract or pursuing legal action.

At its core, the Cure Period Notice functions as both:

  • A communication tool to clearly outline what needs to be fixed.
  • A legal protection mechanism to document non-compliance and preserve the sender’s rights under the contract.

When Is a Cure Period Notice Used?

The Cure Period Notice is used when one party believes the other isn’t fulfilling their contractual obligations. Common scenarios include:

For Sellers:

  • When buyers fail to deposit earnest money by the agreed-upon deadline.
  • If buyers miss deadlines for loan applications or approvals.
  • When buyers fail to provide required documentation to their lender.
  • If buyers don’t sign loan documents within the specified timeframe.
  • When buyers miss the deadline to deliver a Loan Status Update (LSU).

For Buyers:

  • When sellers fail to complete agreed-upon repairs by the deadline.
  • If sellers don’t provide required disclosure documents (like the SPDS or HOA documents).
  • When sellers haven’t maintained the property in the agreed condition.
  • If sellers haven’t removed personal property that wasn’t included in the sale.
  • When sellers fail to provide access for inspections or the final walkthrough.

Key Components of the Cure Period Notice Form

1. Transaction Information (Lines 1-5)

The top portion of the form captures essential transaction details:

  • Contract date.
  • Buyer and seller names.
  • Escrow company information.
  • Property address.

This ensures the notice applies to the specific transaction and connects it to the relevant purchase contract.

2. Notice Delivery Statement (Lines 6-9)

This section identifies:

  • Who is sending the notice (buyer or seller).
  • Who is receiving the notice (buyer or seller).

The sender checks the appropriate boxes to indicate their role and the recipient’s role.

3. Statement of Non-Compliance (Lines 10-16)

This is the most critical section, where the sender outlines the issue. It should:

  • Be specific about which contractual terms were violated.
  • Reference relevant dates or deadlines.
  • Clearly state the required actions to cure the non-compliance.

For example: “Buyer failed to deliver the earnest money deposit of $5,000 to the escrow company by the contractual deadline of March 5, 2025, as outlined in Section 5a of the Purchase Contract. To cure this issue, Buyer must deposit the funds by March 8, 2025.”

4. Cure Period Notice and Consequences (Lines 17-20)

This section includes standardized language explaining the consequences if the non-compliance isn’t resolved:

  • The recipient has three calendar days to cure the issue.
  • Failure to cure results in a breach of contract.
  • The sender may exercise remedies outlined in the purchase contract (e.g., canceling the contract, seeking damages).
  • A recommendation for the recipient to consult legal counsel.

5. Signature Block (Line 21)

The sender signs and dates the notice to formalize its delivery.

The Critical Three-Day Cure Period

When Does the Clock Start?

The three-day period begins the day after the notice is delivered to the recipient.

How Are Days Counted?

  • Days are counted as calendar days, not business days.
  • The period begins at 12:00 a.m. the day after delivery and ends at 11:59 p.m. on the third day.

What If the Third Day Falls on a Weekend or Holiday?

  • Calendar days are used regardless of weekends or holidays, except in one specific situation:
    If the escrow company or recorder’s office is closed on the last day of the Cure Period and the Close of Escrow (COE) must occur to cure the breach, COE will occur on the next business day when both are open.

Proper Completion and Delivery of the Form

Completion Tips:

  • Use clear, specific language when describing the non-compliance.
  • Reference relevant sections of the purchase contract.
  • Be factual, not emotional or accusatory.
  • Retain a copy for your records.

Delivery Methods:

According to Arizona real estate contracts, proper delivery can be accomplished through:

  • Hand delivery.
  • Facsimile (fax) transmission.
  • Email, if addresses are provided in the contract.
  • Recognized overnight courier service.

Ensure you can document when and how the notice was delivered, as this determines when the three-day period begins.

What Happens After Delivering a Cure Period Notice?

1. The Recipient Cures the Non-Compliance

If the issue is fixed within three days, the transaction continues as planned. The sender should acknowledge receipt of the cure in writing.

2. The Recipient Fails to Cure the Non-Compliance

If the issue isn’t resolved within the Cure Period, it becomes a breach of contract. The sender can then:

  • Cancel the contract.
  • Pursue specific performance (e.g., legally compel the recipient to fulfill obligations).
  • Seek damages.
  • Choose to extend the cure period informally.

3. The Recipient Disputes the Non-Compliance

If the recipient denies the issue, mediation, arbitration, or legal consultation may be necessary.

Common Scenarios: Cure Period Notice in Action

Scenario 1: Buyer’s Loan Status Update

  • Situation: The buyer hasn’t delivered the Loan Status Update (LSU) by the contractual deadline.
  • Action: The seller issues a Cure Period Notice.
  • Resolution: The buyer submits the LSU within three days, resolving the issue.

Scenario 2: Seller’s Repair Obligations

  • Situation: During the final walkthrough, the buyer discovers that agreed-upon repairs weren’t completed.
  • Action: The buyer issues a Cure Period Notice detailing the incomplete repairs.
  • Resolution: The seller completes the repairs within the Cure Period, allowing the transaction to proceed.

Scenario 3: Missing Earnest Money

  • Situation: The buyer hasn’t deposited their earnest money as required by the contract.
  • Action: The seller issues a Cure Period Notice.
  • Resolution: If the buyer fails to deposit the funds, the seller cancels the contract.

Tips for Responding to a Cure Period Notice

If you receive a Cure Period Notice:

  1. Act Quickly: You have only three calendar days.
  2. Evaluate the Issue: Verify the claim of non-compliance.
  3. Communicate Promptly: Respond to the other party, even if you dispute the claim.
  4. Document Everything: Keep records of all communications and actions.
  5. Consult Professionals: Seek advice from your real estate agent, broker, or attorney if needed.
  6. Cure the Issue: Resolve the issue if possible, even if you believe the notice was sent in error.

Relationship to Other Transaction Documents

The Cure Period Notice works in conjunction with:

  • Residential Resale Real Estate Purchase Contract: Establishes the cure period requirement.
  • Buyer Pre-Closing Walkthrough: Includes cure notice language for walkthrough issues.
  • Critical Date List: Tracks cure notices throughout the transaction.
  • BINSR: Inspection issues that aren’t addressed may later trigger a Cure Period Notice.

Conclusion

The Cure Period Notice is an essential safeguard in Arizona real estate transactions, providing a formal process to address potential contract breaches. By understanding when and how to use this document—or how to respond if you receive one—you can help protect your interests and keep your transaction on track.

Approaching the situation with clear communication, prompt action, and professional guidance will give you the best chance of resolving issues and moving forward toward a successful closing.