What is an arm's length transaction in real estate?

Let’s dive into the details below. What is an arm’s length transaction? In real estate, an arm’s length transaction is when the buyer and seller each act in their own self-interest to try to get the best deal they can. In most sales, a seller is trying to make a large profit, while the buyer is trying to pay the least amount of money possible.

What is a non-arm's length transaction?

Non-arm's length transactions are purchase transactions in which there is a relationship or business affiliation between the seller and the buyer of the property. Fannie Mae allows non-arm’s length transactions for the purchase of existing properties unless specifically forbidden for the particular scenario, such as delayed financing.

Is a home sale a non-arm's length transaction?

A sale between friends, family or co-workers is considered to be a non-arm’s length transaction. With a non-arm’s length home sale, self-interest may not be the motivation – like a parent selling their home to an adult child. When a boss sells an employee their property, that’s also considered a non-arm’s length transaction.