Glossary
Specific performance
A court order requiring a party to actually perform their contract obligations, rather than just paying damages for breach. Available only when money damages would be inadequate: typically for unique items like real estate.
Specific performance is the exception, not the rule, in contract cases. Courts strongly prefer money damages because they're easier to calculate and don't require ongoing court supervision.
The classic case for specific performance is real estate, where every parcel of land is considered unique and money can't replace what the buyer was contracting for. Some other contracts for unique goods (rare paintings, custom-made items) also qualify.