What is the term for the legal process of creating a binding agreement between a buyer and seller?

The term that describes the legal process of creating a binding agreement between a buyer and seller is contract formation. This process involves the essential components required for a contract to be valid, such as an offer, acceptance, consideration, and the intention to create legal relations. Contract formation establishes the framework within which the buyer and seller outline the terms of their agreement, ensuring that both parties understand their obligations and rights.

While contract negotiation refers to the discussions and adjustments made to the terms before finalizing an agreement, contract endorsement pertains to the act of formally approving or adding a signature to an existing document. Contract execution, on the other hand, typically focuses on the act of signing the contract, which is often part of the contract formation process but does not encompass the entire creation of the binding agreement. Each of these terms is relevant to the overall process of contracts but contract formation specifically highlights the foundational aspects of establishing a legally binding agreement.