contracts

valuable consideration

Valuable consideration is something of measurable worth, such as money, property, services, or a promise to do or not do something, exchanged between parties to a contract. It is what each party gives to get the other's promise. Valuable consideration contrasts with good consideration, which is based on love and affection, such as a gift of land to a relative. Courts generally don't judge whether the amount is fair.

Exam tip
Money or a promise is valuable consideration; love and affection is good consideration. A gift deed can use good consideration.
Example
A buyer's promise to pay $300,000 is valuable consideration for the seller's promise to transfer title.

Related terms & state variants

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Last verified: 2026-10-23