article thumbnail

Is a Home Sale Contingency Clause Always Necessary? Here Are Your Options

HomeLight

But one of the most influential bargaining tools is eliminating contingency clauses, especially the seller contingency clause, also known as the home sale contingency. What is a contingency clause? Let’s begin by looking at the “what” and “why” of contingency clauses. Source: (Masjid MABA / Unsplash).

article thumbnail

How Long Can a House Be Contingent?

HomeLight

Contingent listings can be puzzling and sometimes frustrating — especially when you’re searching for your dream home. In this post, we’ll unpack real estate contingencies, clarify the difference between contingent vs. pending, and explain how long a house might remain labeled as contingent. Why Move Twice?

Insiders

Sign Up for our Newsletter

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

article thumbnail

What Does Contingent Mean in Real Estate?

HomeLight

But as your eyes scan the details of the listing, you come across a term that makes you pause: “Contingent.” ” So, what does contingent mean in real estate? A property listed as “contingent” in real estate means the seller has accepted an offer, but the deal isn’t fully closed yet.

article thumbnail

Can You Make an Offer on a Contingent House? Here’s What to Expect

HomeLight

You’ve been searching for a home to buy, and you come across a property you love only to see it’s labeled as “contingent.” ” or even, “Can you make an offer on a contingent house?” You can then make a strong offer on your next home with no home sale contingency.

article thumbnail

Under Contract vs. Pending: A Home Buyer’s Guide to Status Tags

HomeLight

Searching for a home to buy can be a time of excitement and anxiety. You may be building an online watchlist of homes you’re interested in seeing, but then you notice a label tagging your favorite property listing as “under contract” or “sale pending.” Can you make an offer on a home that’s under contract?

article thumbnail

What Is a Non-Contingent Offer When Buying a Home?

HomeLight

As a homebuyer entering a competitive real estate market, it’s likely you’ll encounter the term “non-contingent offer.” But what exactly does this mean if you’re buying a home? Get Started What is a non-contingent offer? A non-contingent offer stands out as a straightforward proposition.

article thumbnail

What Buyers Need to Know About Contingency Periods (And How Contingency Periods Benefit Them)

HomeLight

But first, you have to sell your old home, potentially secure financing, and secure a home appraisal (and likely an inspection) on your new house. Most purchase agreements have some terms in place that must be met for the deal to go through, such as having a home inspection completed. What is a contingency period?