When a seller requests specific performance in a contract, what are they asking for?

When a seller requests specific performance in a contract, they are essentially asking the court to compel the buyer to fulfill their obligations under the contract, which often means completing the purchase of the property as initially agreed. This legal remedy is typically sought when monetary damages are not adequate to remedy a breach, particularly in real estate transactions where the property is considered unique.

In the context of a real estate transaction, if the buyer fails to close on the home, the seller can opt for specific performance to ensure that the sale goes through as per the terms agreed upon. The idea is that simply receiving financial compensation would not satisfy the seller's circumstance, especially if they are unable to find another buyer on the same terms or within a similar timeframe.

This understanding makes it clear why the correct answer centers around enforcing the buyer to complete the sale rather than seeking damages, renegotiating terms, or canceling the contract. Each of those alternatives operates under different legal concepts that do not align with the specific request for performance in contracts.