How To Buy A House Contingent On Selling Yours

Redfin News

by Holly Hooper

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Buying a house contingent on selling your current home can be a strategic move for those managing simultaneous real estate transactions. This approach allows you to avoid carrying two mortgages while leveraging the equity from your existing property to fund your new purchase. However, it’s crucial to understand how this works and its implications in competitive markets. A home sale contingency is a clause added to a purchase contract that ties the acquisition of a new home to the successful sale of your current one within a specified timeframe, typically 30-60 days. This arrangement provides financial flexibility by allowing you to use proceeds from your home’s sale as a down payment on the new property. However, it can also make your offer less attractive in competitive markets, where sellers may prefer non-contingent buyers or include kick-out clauses that let them accept another offer if one emerges during your contingency period. If your home doesn’t sell within the agreed timeframe, the contract generally expires without penalty, and you may retain your earnest money deposit. To strengthen your position as a contingent buyer, consider listing your home early, pricing it strategically to attract quick sales, and securing pre-approval for financing. These steps can enhance your appeal to sellers and improve your chances of closing on both properties smoothly. This strategy is particularly valuable for those juggling multiple real estate transactions, offering a way to transition without financial strain. However, being aware of potential risks like weakened offers or kick-out clauses is essential to navigating the process effectively. For those considering this approach, careful planning and preparation are key to maximizing success in today’s real estate market.

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Originally published on Redfin News on 2/25/2026