A contract for the sale of real property in Pennsylvania must be in writing, must evidence an intent on the part of both parties to sell/buy the property (ex: an agreed price and an agreement that the landlord will sell at that price and that you as the tenant will buy) and should have certain definite terms such as purchase price, settlement date etc., Without reviewing the actual document, is it is difficult to advise you as to whether this "note" could arguably be interpreted as a contract to purchase the property.
Otherwise, the landlord is free to sell to someone else unless (and again, without knowing all of the facts and circumstances) there are other circumstances. (By way of example, could your note be construed as a lease purchase agreement, that you reasonably relied on that agreement to buy the property and acted on that by doing improvements to the property - again just by way of example).
I hope that above provides some initial and general guidance. Again, without reviewing the note, your lease and being informed of all of relevant facts and circumstances, I cannot properly provide definite legal advice. I would suggest meeting with an experienced real estate attorney to review your situation and options.
Marla D. Sones
Answered on Feb 07th, 2012 at 8:29 AM