What is a contingency clause in a real estate contract?

A contingency clause in a real estate contract serves as a condition that must be fulfilled for the contract to become legally binding. This means that certain specified criteria need to be satisfied before the sale can proceed. For instance, common contingencies include a home inspection, appraisal, or the buyer securing financing. If these conditions are not met within a specified timeframe, the buyer typically has the option to withdraw from the agreement without penalty, which underscores its critical nature in real estate transactions.

Contingency clauses protect the interests of both parties, ensuring that significant issues are addressed before finalizing the sale, thus facilitating a smoother transaction process.