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Option Agreement
I need an option agreement for a potential real estate purchase, allowing me the exclusive right to buy a property within 12 months at a predetermined price. The agreement should include a non-refundable option fee and clearly outline the terms for exercising the option.
What is an Option Agreement?
An Option Agreement gives someone the right to buy or sell something specific - like property, shares, or goods - at a preset price within a certain timeframe. In Malaysia, these contracts are commonly used in real estate development and corporate dealings, falling under the Contracts Act 1950.
The agreement spells out key details like the option price (usually a small deposit), exercise period, and the final purchase price. The holder can choose to exercise the option during the agreed period, but isn't obligated to do so. This flexibility makes options valuable for managing business risks and securing future opportunities in Malaysia's dynamic market.
When should you use an Option Agreement?
Use an Option Agreement when you need to secure future rights without committing to an immediate purchase. This works especially well in Malaysian property development, where developers might want to lock in land prices while conducting due diligence, or when negotiating with potential investors who need time to arrange financing.
It's particularly valuable during market uncertainty or when dealing with high-value assets. For example, business owners planning expansion can use options to reserve adjacent properties, and investors can secure rights to buy company shares at today's prices while evaluating the business thoroughly. The agreement protects both parties by clearly defining the terms and timeframe.
What are the different types of Option Agreement?
- Option To Buy Contract: Basic agreement giving the right to purchase property at a fixed price during a set period
- Lease With Option To Buy Contract: Combines rental terms with a future purchase option, popular in commercial properties
- Lease To Own Rental Agreement: Rental payments contribute to eventual purchase, common in residential properties
- Contract For Lease To Own: Detailed version specifying payment schedules and purchase terms
- Extend Lease Agreement: Adds option period to existing lease arrangements
Who should typically use an Option Agreement?
- Property Developers: Use Option Agreements to secure land for future development while conducting feasibility studies and obtaining approvals
- Business Owners: Secure rights to acquire strategic assets or properties at preset prices for future expansion
- Legal Firms: Draft and review agreements to ensure compliance with Malaysian contract law and protect client interests
- Real Estate Agents: Facilitate option arrangements between buyers and sellers, especially in commercial property deals
- Investors: Secure rights to purchase shares or assets while performing due diligence and arranging financing
- Banks/Financiers: Review agreements when financing is required for the eventual purchase
How do you write an Option Agreement?
- Basic Details: Gather full legal names, addresses, and identification numbers of all parties involved
- Asset Information: Document complete details of the property or asset, including title numbers or share quantities
- Financial Terms: Set the option fee, purchase price, and payment schedule aligned with Malaysian banking practices
- Timeline Planning: Determine the option exercise period and key milestone dates
- Due Diligence: Verify property ownership, encumbrances, and necessary permits
- Special Conditions: List any specific requirements or contingencies for exercising the option
- Documentation: Use our platform to generate a legally-sound agreement that includes all mandatory elements
What should be included in an Option Agreement?
- Party Details: Full legal names, addresses, and identification numbers of option grantor and grantee
- Asset Description: Precise details of property or shares, including title numbers and location
- Option Terms: Clear statement of option price, exercise period, and final purchase price
- Exercise Mechanism: Specific process and notice requirements for exercising the option
- Payment Terms: Detailed payment schedule and method compliant with Malaysian banking regulations
- Default Provisions: Consequences of breach and remedies available to parties
- Governing Law: Express statement that Malaysian law governs the agreement
- Execution Block: Proper signature spaces with witness provisions as required by local law
What's the difference between an Option Agreement and an Asset Purchase Agreement?
An Option Agreement differs significantly from a Asset Purchase Agreement in several key ways. While both deal with asset transactions, they serve different purposes in Malaysian business law.
- Timing and Commitment: Option Agreements create a right to buy in the future, while Asset Purchase Agreements form an immediate binding sale
- Financial Obligation: Options require only a small upfront fee, whereas Asset Purchase Agreements involve full payment arrangements
- Risk Distribution: Options let buyers evaluate opportunities with minimal financial exposure, while Asset Purchase Agreements transfer all risks immediately
- Due Diligence Period: Options provide extended investigation time without full commitment, but Asset Purchase Agreements typically have shorter due diligence windows
- Legal Effect: Options create conditional future rights, while Asset Purchase Agreements transfer ownership immediately upon execution
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