What does the term 'contingency' mean in a real estate contract?

In real estate contracts, the term 'contingency' refers to a condition that must be met for the contract to become binding. This means that the completion of a certain event or the fulfillment of specific criteria is necessary in order for the agreement to be enforceable. For example, a common contingency in real estate is a financing contingency, where the buyer's obligation to purchase the property is conditional upon securing a mortgage. If this condition is not met, the buyer can typically withdraw from the contract without legal repercussions.

By incorporating contingencies, both buyers and sellers can protect their interests and create a structured process for completing the transaction. This concept is crucial for ensuring that all parties involved understand the requirements that must be satisfied for the deal to proceed. Understanding this helps all stakeholders navigate the complexities of real estate transactions more effectively.