When a buyer sues for specific performance after the seller backs out, what is the buyer seeking?

When a buyer sues for specific performance after the seller backs out of a contract, the buyer is seeking the transfer of the property. Specific performance is a legal remedy available in contract law that compels a party to fulfill their obligations under a contract when monetary damages would not suffice as adequate compensation. In real estate transactions, this often involves the buyer wanting the seller to complete the sale of the property as originally agreed.

Choosing the transfer of the property reflects the buyer's desire to obtain the specific asset—the property in question—rather than simply receiving financial compensation or starting anew with a different agreement. This is particularly important in real estate because each piece of property is unique, making the actual transfer of ownership necessary to satisfy the buyer’s interest and intent.