Ignite FB Tracking PixelContingent offers: The basics - Rob Lowenthal
Corcoran Legends
Rob Lowenthal, Corcoran LegendsPhone: (914) 450-8120
Email: [email protected]

Contingent offers: The basics

by Rob Lowenthal 05/31/2024

What to expect when dealing with a contingent offer featured image

In real estate transactions, it’s vital that all parties involved are protected legally. Contingencies are used as an extra layer of protection to make sure both buyers and sellers get the most out of the home buying and selling process. However, some clauses benefit one party, while potentially damaging the other. 


What does it mean when an offer is contingent?

In the world of real estate, contingent means “something depending on specific circumstances. So if a home seller accepts a contingent offer, this means the deal is almost done but won’t be complete until certain standards are met. 


Should I accept a contingent offer?

During the home selling process, it’s best to proceed with caution in regards to contingent offers. A standard home sale may include a home inspection contingency, giving the buyer the freedom to walk away from the home if the home inspection doesn’t come back satisfactory. This may also include forfeiting earnest money from the buyer if the sale falls through. 

However, it’s vital to examine the purchase contract for all home sale contingencies, especially ones that are not standard. For example, some buyers may add a contingency clause saying the purchase of a property won’t proceed until they can sell the home they currently own. 

This can greatly slow down the home selling process and waste time on the side of the home seller. 


How often do contingent offers fall through?

On average, around 5 percent of contingent offers in real estate fall through. However, this number doesn’t capture the cases that continued but with extra difficulty due to extra clauses in the purchase contract. 

Whether there’s a mortgage contingency, home sale contingency, appraisal contingency or any other clauses, it’s vital to comb through the purchase agreement with your real estate agent for optimal results.


About the Author
Author

Rob Lowenthal

“I sell your home like it's mine”

A licensed real estate salesperson since 2016, Rob is affiliated with the Briarcliff Manor office of Corcoran Legends Realty. He serves buyers, sellers, renters, in Westchester, Rockland, and Putnam counties. Rob, a native of New York and Westchester County for most of his life, brings an extensive local knowledge of both residential and commercial properties to the table. His experience includes a wide range of property types – single-family, multi-family, condos and mixed use. “Hard to sell” properties is where Rob really excels. “There’s no problem that cannot be solved.”

Rob is certified for many different disciplines in real estate. Cartus Relocation Network Agent, AARP Agent, National Tenants Network (NTN) Agent, Green certified and Pricing Strategies Master. In addition, Rob has completed the Leader’s Edge Advanced training to better serve his clients. Rob has been both associate of the month and top closed dollar agent.

When you work with Rob, you get the feeling you’re his only client. Numbers don’t count, you do. Clients always come first. Each transaction is handled as if it were his own home. Rob strives to make the process as seamless as possible and takes care of all the details, no matter how small. His clients rave about his above-and-beyond service and prompt informative communication. Rob is easy going, friendly, and patient. However he can be a determined and aggressive negotiator when the need arises.

When not out actively working on behalf of his clients, Rob spends time with his wife and two teenage daughters. A devoted supporter of community he sits on several local boards and volunteers for numerous locale nonprofit organizations. He enjoys cycling, hiking, kayaking and winter skiing.

May your price be right, and your sale be swift!”