In Schwartz v. Cilmi & Associates , Jonathan Schwartz believed that he was entitled to cancel a contract to purchase real property upon providing written notice to Cilmi & Associates at any time and "for any reason" during the prescribed due diligence period.
While the Appellate Division, First Department, noted that Schwartz's interpretation of the language (as not requiring him to state a reason for the contract's cancellation) was reasonable, the clause could also be read otherwise. Since the disputed language appeared along with the right of inspection, it was also reasonable to interpret that pairing as requiring Schwartz to provide a reason that was related to the premises' inspection.
Ultimately, however, in view of the conflicting interpretations, the appellate court was of the opinion that a trial was warranted.
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For a copy of the Appellate Division's decision, please use the following link: Schwartz v. Cilmi & Associates