64. Which of the following is NOT an option that a seller has after receiving a counteroffer?
Answer: B
A seller cannot discharge the contract after receiving a counteroffer.
Once a seller receives a counteroffer, they lose the ability to discharge the contract related to the original offer. Discharging a contract typically refers to ending it entirely, which is not a valid option after a counteroffer is made.
A) allow the offer to expire
Allowing the offer to expire is a valid option for a seller after receiving a counteroffer. The seller can choose not to respond to the counteroffer within the given timeframe, effectively letting it lapse without any agreement being reached.
B) discharge the contract
Discharging the contract is not an option available to the seller after a counteroffer is received. Once a counteroffer is made, the original offer is no longer valid, and the seller cannot simply discharge the contract as it pertains to the previous offer.
C) accept the offer
Acceptance of the counteroffer is a legitimate option for the seller. If the seller agrees to the terms proposed in the counteroffer, they can formally accept it, resulting in a new contract being established.
D) reject the offer in writing
The seller can also reject the counteroffer in writing, which is a standard option. By formally communicating their decision to reject, the seller can maintain a clear record of their response to the negotiation.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer is B, as discharging the contract is not an option a seller can exercise after receiving a counteroffer. The other options—allowing the offer to expire, accepting the counteroffer, or rejecting it in writing—are all viable actions that a seller may take in response to a counteroffer. This understanding is crucial for navigating the negotiation process effectively.