When buying a house in Florida, you may come across the term “no contingency” or “non-contingent offer”. This means the buyer is offering to purchase the property without any contingencies. In other words, the sale is not contingent upon certain conditions being met, such as a successful home inspection or mortgage approval.
While a non-contingent offer may seem attractive to sellers because it provides a sense of certainty and security, it can also be risky for buyers.
What you should consider when buying a house;
Home Inspection
Home inspections identify any potential issues or problems with the property. If you make a non-contingent offer, you may be waiving your right to a home inspection and potentially purchasing a property with hidden defects or damage.
Financing
If your offer is non-contingent upon financing, you may risk losing your deposit or even the entire purchase if you cannot secure a mortgage.
Appraisal
An appraisal lets you know the actual value of a property. If you waive your right to one, you may pay more for the property than it is worth.
Title Issues
Real estate title searches determine the legal ownership of a property and the history of any liens, encumbrances, or other claims on the property. The primary goal of a title search is to ensure that the seller has legal ownership of the property and has the right to sell it. If you waive your right to a title search and insurance, you may be liable for any title issues that arise after the sale, including liens or other encumbrances on the property.
Making a non-contingent offer on a house you desire may be tempting. However, it is important to carefully consider the risks and benefits before doing so. It’s crucial that you understand the legal and financial implications of a non-contingent offer so that you can protect your investment.
