Buying a Home with a Home Sale Contingency in Maryland: Smart Move or Risky Bet?

Trying to Buy a New Home Before You Sell the Old One? Here’s What You Need to Know

It’s a classic Maryland real estate challenge: you’ve found the perfect home in Ellicott City, but your current place in Bel Air still hasn’t sold. What now?

Enter the home sale contingency: a common clause that gives you time to sell your current home before you're locked into buying the next one. It can be a lifesaver, but it also comes with trade-offs. Whether you're moving up, relocating or balancing both sides of the deal, here's what you need to know before making an offer with this contingency attached.

What Is a Home Sale Contingency?

A home sale contingency is a contract clause that makes your offer to buy a home dependent on the sale of your existing property. If your current home doesn’t sell within a certain timeframe, you can usually walk away from the deal without losing your deposit.

It’s most common with move-up buyers and relocating families especially in transitional markets like Baltimore County or Carroll County where timing can be tricky.

Pros: Why a Home Sale Contingency Can Work in Your Favor

✅ Less Financial Risk
You won’t be stuck owning two homes at once, which means no double mortgage payments, no scrambling to find short-term housing, and no unnecessary stress.

✅ More Flexibility
Gives you time to sell the right way. You can list your home competitively, stage it, and wait for a solid offer rather than rushing into a lowball deal just to move forward.

✅ Appealing in Balanced Markets
 In areas like Harford County or parts of Anne Arundel, where inventory and demand are more even, sellers may be more open to accepting contingencies.

Cons: Why It Can Hurt Your Offer

⚠️ Sellers May Skip Your Offer
In competitive neighborhoods like Canton or Columbia, sellers often prefer “clean” offers with fewer strings attached. If another buyer comes in without a contingency, they may win even with a lower price.

⚠️ Added Timeline Pressure
If your home doesn’t sell within the agreed timeframe (often 30 to 60 days), your dream home could slip away. It can feel like a countdown clock once you're under contract.

⚠️ Kick-Out Clauses
 Many sellers include a clause allowing them to continue showing the home. If they get a non-contingent offer, you may have to either remove your contingency or walk away. That’s a tough spot to be in if your house still hasn’t sold.

Tips to Make a Contingent Offer Work in Maryland

• Get your current home market-ready first. In towns like Towson or Havre de Grace, presentation matters. A staged and priced-right home sells faster and makes your contingent offer stronger.
  

• Price your home realistically. Overpricing slows things down and weakens your position when time is ticking.
  

• Work with a lender who understands timing. Some lenders offer bridge loan options or backup financing to strengthen your offer.
  

• Lean on an experienced real estate team. Negotiating contingencies takes finesse. You’ll want someone who knows how to advocate for your position while keeping the deal attractive to the seller.
  

Let’s Navigate It Together

At the Teal Clise Group, we’ve helped dozens of Maryland buyers win homes with (and without) contingencies. Whether you're upgrading in Howard County, downsizing in Cecil County, or relocating within Baltimore City, we’ll help you craft a smart strategy that fits your situation and the market.

Contact us today for a strategy session, lender referral or honest advice about your next move.