Richard v. Richard
Supreme Court of Rhode Island
900 A.2d 1170 (2006)
Gregory and Jennifer Richard (plaintiffs) orally agreed to buy a house from Gregory's father, Norman Richard (defendant), for $70,000 (Norman claimed a higher price, but the trial court didn't believe him). Gregory and Jennifer were already renting the home when they made the deal. After that, they paid Norman more than rent, and Norman tracked the excess in a separate ledger against the $70,000 balance. They also made permanent improvements to the property. During their divorce, the family court ordered Norman to convey the house to them. Norman appealed.
Whether an oral contract for the sale of real property can be enforced when the buyer is already in possession and has partially performed by making payments and permanent improvements.