Is it permissible to exchange the price and take possession of the sold item during the option period?

Primary text

It is permissible to exchange the price and take possession of the sold item during the option period. This is the position of Abu Hanifa and Al-Shafi'i. The evidence for this position is that the permissibility of exchange and possession is a ruling concerning the sale itself, and thus it is valid during the option period, similar to lease agreements (Ijarah). The counter-argument regarding this being a loan if the contract is dissolved is refuted because the jurists permitting it do not permit disposition of the item itself.