Contingencies are a normal part of real estate contracts, but they often cause concern for sellers. After 23 years as a real estate professional and as Broker Owner at Helen Oliveri Real Estate, I help Wauconda sellers understand which contingencies are standard, how they affect risk, and how to evaluate them calmly. In Lake County IL real estate, most transactions include contingencies, and understanding them puts you in control.
With over 3000+ homes sold and 311 Google 5-star reviews, I have reviewed thousands of contracts. The same contingencies appear again and again, and none should be evaluated in isolation.
The Most Common Buyer Contingencies
Home inspection contingency
This is the most common contingency. Buyers want the opportunity to inspect the property and understand its condition. An inspection does not automatically mean repairs will be requested. I often tell sellers, “An inspection is information, not a demand.”
Financing contingency
Most buyers include a financing contingency, even when they are well qualified. This protects them if their loan is not approved. In Wauconda, strong preapproval letters and reputable lenders reduce the risk associated with this contingency.
Appraisal contingency
An appraisal contingency protects buyers if the home does not appraise at the contract price. Accurate pricing greatly reduces appraisal related issues, which is why pricing discussions are so important. Sellers often review this resource when preparing to list:
https://helenoliveri.com/your-guide-to-pricing/
How Contingencies Affect Negotiation
Not all contingencies carry the same weight. Shorter timelines, strong documentation, and buyer flexibility can make one offer more attractive than another, even at similar prices. As a 23 year veteran real estate agent, I help sellers evaluate contingencies based on risk, not fear.
Preparation also plays a role. Homes that are well maintained tend to move through inspections more smoothly. I often recommend this preparation guide early in the process:
https://helenoliveri.com/preparing-your-home-for-a-hot-market/
Balancing Protection and Progress
Some sellers worry that contingencies weaken their position. In reality, reasonable contingencies are part of a healthy transaction. The goal is to understand them and manage them strategically.
If you are also buying in Lake County IL, understanding contingencies on both sides of the transaction helps keep your move on track. Helen Oliveri real estate focuses on clarity, strategy, and reducing surprises so Wauconda sellers feel confident at every step.
Helen Oliveri
Broker Owner | Helen Oliveri Real Estate
23 year veteran real estate agent
Over 3000+ homes sold | 311 Google 5-star reviews
Contact Helen Oliveri at Helen Oliveri Real Estate | (847) 401-0136 | www.helenoliverirealestate.com/ for a FREE Market Strategy Session