Redfin

AUGUST 5, 2025

Here are the most common contingency clauses that a buyer may include in an offer to allow them to break their contract and walk away from the deal without losing their earnest money: Inspection contingency: This protects a buyer against purchasing a home that is revealed to be in poor condition or requires major repairs.

Earnest money deposit

Redfin

JUNE 27, 2025

What many first-time buyers don’t realize is that there are national, state, and even local programs designed to help break down these barriers for new buyers. If major repairs are needed, you may be able to use the inspection report to negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price.

Pre-approval

HomeLight

SEPTEMBER 1, 2022

Buyers will also find a lot of coastal home designs, as well as a good number of condos and townhomes. While it is not always recommended to completely waive contingencies to impress a seller, you might consider pairing down to just the inspection contingency and financing contingency to remain competitive.

Earnest money deposit

HomeLight

AUGUST 27, 2021

Source: (Conscious Design / Unsplash). Issues with the home’s title. Common title problems include unknown liens, errors in public records, and illegal deeds. A property title search can help you uncover these issues during the closing process. Serious problems found with home inspection.

Purchase and sale agreement

HomeLight

MARCH 13, 2023

Home-buying companies generally pick up closing costs including title search and title insurance that usually range from 1.5% Otherwise, instead of a speedy sale, you could lose valuable time if you have to search for a new buyer. Both parties sign a contract and submit it to a title company.

Sales

HomeLight

MAY 28, 2021

An inspection can tell you upfront the exact issues with the house so you know what money you might have to spend down the line. It’s also wise to add an inspection contingency in your purchase contract , so if the inspection shows more repairs than you expected, you can walk away. Conduct a title search.

As-is

HomeLight

JUNE 30, 2021

We’re bound by a certain code of ethics that really governs everything that we do and is designed to protect our clients and to put our clients first.”. Inspection contingency. A professional home inspection gives the buyer the opportunity to uncover any potential problems with the house before purchasing.

Purchase and sale agreement