Contingencies are a normal part of most real estate contracts, but they often create concern for sellers. After 23 years as a real estate professional and as Broker Owner at Helen Oliveri Real Estate, I help Libertyville sellers understand which contingencies are typical, what they mean, and how they affect risk. In Lake County IL real estate, understanding contingencies helps sellers make confident decisions.
With over 3000+ homes sold and 311 Google 5-star reviews, I have reviewed thousands of contracts. Most contingencies follow predictable patterns and can be managed with the right strategy.
The Most Common Buyer Contingencies
Home inspection contingency
This is the most common contingency in Libertyville contracts. It allows buyers to conduct an inspection and request repairs or credits. Inspections are meant to identify material issues, not create perfection.
I often tell sellers, “Inspection contingencies are about information, 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 that protects them if their loan is not approved. This is standard and expected in Lake County IL homes for sale unless the buyer is paying cash.
Appraisal contingency
This contingency protects buyers if the appraised value comes in below the purchase price. Pricing accuracy plays a major role in reducing appraisal risk.
Sellers often review this pricing resource to understand how pricing affects contingencies:
https://helenoliveri.com/your-guide-to-pricing/
Contingencies Sellers Often Ask About
Home sale contingency
Some buyers need to sell their current home before closing. These contingencies require careful evaluation, but they 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 specific 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, timing, and buyer strength.
At Helen Oliveri Real Estate, contingencies are reviewed strategically so sellers understand both risk and opportunity 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 Libertyville 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