Seller: Overview, definition, and example
What is a seller?
A seller is an individual, business, or entity that transfers goods, services, or assets to a buyer in exchange for payment. The seller is responsible for delivering the agreed-upon product or service while complying with the terms of the sale, including price, quality, and delivery conditions.
For example, in a real estate transaction, the homeowner selling their property is the seller, while the person purchasing the home is the buyer.
Why is a seller important?
Sellers play a crucial role in commerce by supplying goods and services to consumers and businesses. Clear responsibilities and legal protections for sellers help ensure smooth transactions, prevent disputes, and maintain trust between parties.
For businesses, being a seller involves legal obligations, such as honoring warranties, providing accurate product descriptions, and complying with consumer protection laws. Well-defined contracts and policies help sellers protect themselves from liability and ensure successful transactions.
Understanding a seller through an example
Imagine a company that manufactures office furniture. When a business purchases desks and chairs from this manufacturer, the company acts as the seller, responsible for delivering the products in good condition and according to the agreed specifications.
In another scenario, an online marketplace facilitates transactions between independent sellers and buyers. Each seller lists their products, sets prices, and ships items directly to customers, while the marketplace ensures compliance with platform policies.
An example of a seller clause
Here’s how a seller clause might appear in a sales agreement:
“The Seller agrees to transfer ownership of the Goods to the Buyer upon receipt of full payment. The Seller warrants that the Goods are free from defects and conform to the specifications set forth in this Agreement.”
Conclusion
A seller is responsible for providing goods or services in exchange for payment, ensuring compliance with contractual and legal requirements. Whether in retail, real estate, or business-to-business transactions, sellers must uphold their obligations to maintain trust, avoid disputes, and facilitate successful exchanges.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.