Contingency
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A contingency refers to a condition or provision included in a purchase agreement or contract that must be met for the contract to be binding and for the sale to proceed. Contingencies are designed to protect the interests of both the buyer and the seller by allowing them to back out of the contract under specific circumstances without facing legal consequences.
Here’s more information about contingencies in real estate transactions:
Types of Contingencies: There are several common types of contingencies included in real estate contracts:
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- Home Inspection Contingency: This contingency allows the buyer to conduct a professional home inspection within a specified period after the offer is accepted. If significant issues are discovered during the inspection, the buyer may have the option to request repairs, renegotiate the purchase price, or withdraw from the contract.
- Financing Contingency: A financing contingency allows the buyer to secure financing for the purchase of the property within a specified timeframe. If the buyer is unable to obtain a mortgage loan or secure adequate financing, they can cancel the contract without penalty.
- Appraisal Contingency: An appraisal contingency stipulates that the sale is contingent upon the property being appraised at or above the agreed-upon purchase price. If the property appraises for less than the purchase price, the buyer may have the option to renegotiate the price, request additional financing, or terminate the contract.
- Sale Contingency: A sale contingency allows the buyer to make the purchase of the new property contingent upon the sale of their existing home. If the buyer’s home fails to sell within a specified period, they may have the option to cancel the contract.
- Title Contingency: A title contingency requires that the seller provide clear and marketable title to the property, free of any liens, encumbrances, or legal issues. If title defects are discovered during the title search, the buyer may have the right to cancel the contract.
Negotiation: Contingencies are typically negotiated between the buyer and the seller as part of the offer and acceptance process. Both parties must agree to the terms of the contingencies before the contract becomes binding.
Timelines: Contingencies include specific timelines or deadlines by which certain actions must be taken. For example, the buyer may have 10 days to conduct a home inspection and submit any requests for repairs or concessions.
Removal of Contingencies: Once the contingencies are satisfied or waived within the specified timeframes, they are removed from the contract, and the sale becomes firm and binding. If the contingencies are not satisfied within the specified timeframes, either party may have the option to cancel the contract.
In summary, contingencies are important contractual provisions in real estate transactions that protect the interests of both buyers and sellers and provide a mechanism for addressing potential issues or concerns that may arise during the sale process.
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