Should I Accept a Contingent Offer?

Contingent offers—where a buyer must sell their current home before purchasing yours—aren’t always risky, but they do require thoughtful evaluation. The Improta Team helps sellers assess the buyer’s financial strength, review the marketability of their existing property, and set timeframes and protections that keep your transaction secure.

A contingent offer can actually be a win-win when managed properly. Many qualified buyers simply need to free up equity from their current home, and with the right structure, these offers can move just as smoothly as non-contingent ones. The key is understanding the details behind the buyer’s situation. Factors like whether their home is already listed, priced appropriately, or under contract can dramatically change the level of risk involved.

Clear deadlines are essential. Setting specific timelines for listing, accepting an offer, or removing contingencies keeps the process moving and prevents your listing from sitting idle. Strong contractual protections—such as the right to continue showing your home or accept backup offers—can also safeguard your position while still giving the buyer a fair chance to perform.

Before accepting any contingent offer, it’s important to weigh market conditions, your own timeline, and the overall strength of the buyer’s plan. With the right guidance and due diligence, a contingent buyer can be just as solid as any other—and sometimes even more motivated to close on time.

By taking a strategic, informed approach, you can confidently decide whether a contingent offer is the right move for your sale.