Answers by Leslie Iacolucci

Contingent status usually means the offer that seller accepted is from a seller that has to sell their home first in order to buy this home. As long as you don't have to sell a home to buy this one you could make an offer and potentially bump the contingent buyer.

Ask your lender to get you fully underwritten before you put in an offer on a home. Once fully underwritten ask your lender how quickly they could close a deal - 15 days? Have your portion of funds - down payment and closing costs liquid and ready to go. Depending on the home and if it has been pre-inspected there are other things to do to make your offer more attractive. Hiring a good local buyer's agent will get you through the process smoothly.