What is the likely result for a minor entering into a real estate contract?

A minor entering into a real estate contract typically has the right to void the contract due to their status as a minor. This principle arises from the legal doctrine that protects minors from entering into binding contracts that they may not fully understand. Therefore, the contract is voidable, meaning the minor can choose to affirm or reject it at any time before reaching the age of majority or within a reasonable time after that.

This protective measure recognizes that minors may lack the maturity and experience necessary to make informed decisions regarding significant financial obligations, such as real estate transactions. If the minor chooses to void the contract, it is as if the contract never existed, thereby protecting them from any negative consequences that may arise from the agreement.

Other responses may indicate that the contract is immediately void; however, contracts entered by minors are not entirely void from inception, but rather voidable at the minor's discretion. Similarly, the idea that the contract remains valid but unenforceable does not apply here, as the key feature of a voidable contract is that the minor can choose to void it. Finally, the suggestion that the contract must be fulfilled without penalty misunderstands the fundamental principle that the minor has the right to opt out altogether.