Answers by Bob Downs

Short answer: There can still be a chance. “Contingent” doesn’t always mean the door is closed. Here’s what it usually means and what you can do: What Contingent” Means When a house is contingent, the seller has accepted an offer, but the deal still depends on certain conditions being satisfied. Common contingencies include: * Home inspection * Financing/mortgage approval * Appraisal * Buyer selling their current home Until those contingencies are cleared, the deal is not fully locked in. Can You Still Make an Offer? Yes — in many cases, you can still submit a backup offer. A backup offer means: * If the first buyer walks away or fails a contingency, your offer automatically moves into first position. * The seller may actually welcome this because it protects them if the current deal falls apart. What Happens Next Three possible scenarios: 1. The current deal closes Nothing changes — the home sells to the first buyer. 2. A contingency fails Your backup offer could become the primary contract immediately. 3. You make a stronger offer Occasionally, a seller will accept a backup offer that is stronger (a better price, fewer contingencies), giving you leverage if the first deal wobbles. Smart Move Right Now Ask the listing agent: * What contingencies are still outstanding? * Is the seller accepting backup offers? * When do those contingencies expire?