What remedy does a buyer have if a hailstorm damages a property before closing?

When a hailstorm damages a property before closing, the buyer has the right to choose not to proceed with the contract. This stems from the fact that significant damage can affect the property's value and conditions, which may be contrary to what was agreed upon in the contract. In real estate transactions, there are often clauses that protect buyers in the event of damage to the property prior to closing.

If the property sustains damage, it may be deemed unfit or undesirable for the buyer, providing a valid reason to withdraw from the transaction. Additionally, closing would typically require that the property be in the condition expected or agreed upon when the contract was signed. Therefore, if the property has been materially altered due to the hailstorm damage, the buyer is lawfully within their rights to decide not to move forward with the purchase.

This is consistent with the principles of real estate contracts that allow for parties to reevaluate their obligations based on significant changes in circumstances affecting the property.