Should I Accept an Offer with Contingencies?
Evaluating Contingent Offers in San Marcos
Not all offers are created equal. As a 23-year veteran real estate agent with HomeSmart Stars, I help San Marcos sellers evaluate contingent offers and understand the risks involved.
Common Contingencies in San Marcos
The San Marcos TX real estate 2026 market sees several standard contingencies. Financing contingencies allow buyers to cancel if they can't secure a loan—common and reasonable. Appraisal contingencies protect buyers if the home doesn't appraise at contract price. Inspection contingencies give buyers option periods to inspect and negotiate repairs. Sale of buyer's current home contingencies make your sale dependent on their sale closing.
As a Realtor at HomeSmart Stars with over 1,561 team sales homes sold, I've navigated every type of contingency situation.
Assessing Contingency Risk
When evaluating offers on San Marcos TX homes for sale, consider buyer's financial strength—pre-approval letter strength and down payment size indicate commitment. Contingency timelines—shorter periods (7 days vs. 21 days) reduce your risk. Market conditions—in seller's markets, you can demand fewer contingencies. Backup offers—having alternatives gives you leverage.
Sale Contingencies: Highest Risk
Offers contingent on buyers selling their current home carry the highest risk. You're dependent on their buyer, their timeline, and factors completely outside your control. These offers should include proof that their home is already under contract, short timelines for their sale to close, and kick-out clauses allowing you to continue marketing.
One seller shared: "Bob advised accepting a slightly lower non-contingent offer over a higher offer contingent on the buyer's Austin home selling. We closed 30 days later while that buyer's home still sat on the market."
When to Accept Contingencies
If you have limited buyer interest, contingent offers may be your best option. When the contingency period is short and well-defined, risk is manageable. If you're not in a rush and can wait for the buyer's situation to resolve, patience may pay off.
Understanding home values in San Marcos TX includes understanding offer strength beyond just price.
Strengthening Contingent Offers
Request larger earnest money deposits to demonstrate commitment. Shorten contingency timelines when possible. Include liquidated damages provisions. Maintain your property's active status with a kick-out clause.
Whether your San Marcos home is in Hays County, San Marcos CISD, or Hays CISD, I help you evaluate all offer terms, not just price.
With 45 Google 5-star reviews, sellers trust Bob McCranie real estate to evaluate contingent offers and protect their interests.
Contact Bob McCranie at HomeSmart Stars | 972-754-0582 | www.AustinBestAgent.com for a FREE 2025 Market Strategy Session