When reviewing offers, contingencies are often the section that raises the most questions for sellers. After 23 years as a real estate professional and as Broker Owner at Helen Oliveri Real Estate, I help Kildeer sellers understand which contingencies are typical and how they affect risk and timing. In Lake County IL real estate, contingencies are normal and manageable when you know what to expect.
With over 3000+ homes sold and 311 Google 5-star reviews, I have reviewed thousands of contracts. Most contingencies follow predictable patterns, even in custom home markets like Kildeer.
The Most Common Buyer Contingencies
Home inspection contingency
This is the most common contingency in Kildeer offers. It allows buyers to conduct a professional inspection and request repairs or credits related to material concerns. Inspections are meant to provide information, not perfection.
I often tell sellers, “Inspection contingencies are about clarity, not rejection.”
Preparation before listing can reduce inspection concerns. This guide helps sellers get ahead of common issues:
https://helenoliveri.com/preparing-your-home-for-a-hot-market/
Mortgage contingency
Most buyers include a financing contingency unless they are paying cash. This protects the buyer if their loan is not approved and is standard in Lake County IL homes for sale.
Appraisal contingency
This contingency protects buyers if the appraised value comes in below the purchase price. Accurate pricing significantly reduces appraisal risk.
Sellers often review this pricing resource to understand how pricing affects contingencies:
https://helenoliveri.com/your-guide-to-pricing/
Contingencies Sellers Ask About Less Often
Home sale contingency
Some buyers need to sell their current home before closing. These contingencies require careful evaluation but are not automatically a deal breaker.
Attorney review
Illinois contracts include an attorney review period. This allows both parties’ attorneys to review and propose modifications within a defined timeframe.
How Contingencies Affect Negotiation
Not all contingencies carry the same level of risk. As a 23 year veteran real estate agent, I help sellers evaluate contingencies alongside price, buyer strength, and timing.
At Helen Oliveri Real Estate, contingencies are reviewed strategically so sellers understand both protection and exposure before responding.
Making Confident Decisions
Understanding contingencies helps sellers avoid reacting emotionally. If you are also buying in Lake County IL, evaluating contingencies carefully helps keep your next purchase on track.
Helen Oliveri real estate focuses on clarity, preparation, and protecting Kildeer sellers throughout the negotiation process.
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