How Do Contingencies Work When Buying and Selling a Home in Bel Air, Maryland?

If you’re planning to sell your current home and buy a new one, you’ve probably heard the term:

“contingency”

And you’re wondering:

“How do contingencies actually work—and how do they affect my ability to move?”

The truth is:
Contingencies are one of the most important (and misunderstood) parts of buying and selling at the same time.

Jennifer Fitze is a Realtor, Associate Broker with COMPASS in Bel Air, Maryland helping homeowners navigate buying and selling at the same time, including how to use contingencies strategically when upgrading to a larger home.

Let’s break this down in a simple, real-world way.

What Is a Contingency?

A contingency is:

👉A condition that must be met for a contract to move forward

If the condition isn’t met:

• The deal can be delayed

• Renegotiated

• Or canceled

Contingencies are not just contract terms—they’re strategic tools that can either protect you or weaken your position depending on how they’re used.

The Most Common Contingency When Upsizing

Home Sale Contingency

This means:

👉 You agree to buy a home only if your current home sells

This protects you from:

• Owning two homes

• Carrying two mortgages

• Financial risk

How It Works (Simple Example)

Let’s say:

• You want to buy a new home in Bel Air

• But you haven’t sold your current home yet

You submit an offer that says:

👉 “This purchase is contingent on the sale of my current home”

If your home doesn’t sell:
→ You can exit the contract safely

The Pros of Using a Contingency

• Reduces financial risk

• Protects your equity

• Gives you flexibility

For many upsizing sellers:
👉 This is a safer approach

The Cons of Using a Contingency

• Your offer may be less competitive

• Sellers may choose non-contingent buyers

• You may lose out in multiple-offer situations

In Bel Air neighborhoods like Bright Oaks, Amyclae, and Majors Choice, this can matter—especially in competitive price ranges.

When Contingencies Work Best

Contingencies tend to work well when:

• The market is balanced or slower

• The home you’re buying has been sitting

• The seller is flexible

• Your current home is already listed or under contract

When Contingencies Are More Challenging

They can be harder when:

• Inventory is low

• Multiple offers are common

• Sellers want quick, clean deals

How to Strengthen a Contingent Offer

If you need to use a contingency, you can still make your offer strong:

• Price your current home correctly

• Have your home listed (or ready to list)

• Show strong buyer qualifications

• Work with a clear timeline

If you’re wondering how to buy and sell a home at the same time in Bel Air, this is where contingencies play a major role.

Alternative Strategy: Sell First

Many homeowners choose to:

👉 Sell their home first
👉 Then buy without a contingency

Why?

• Stronger buying position

• More negotiating power

• Less risk

If you’re unsure whether to sell before buying in Bel Air, that’s one of the biggest decisions tied to contingencies.

Real Seller Example (Bel Air)

A homeowner in Majors Choice wanted to upgrade but was nervous about timing.

They considered:

• Making a contingent offer

• Waiting to sell

We:

• Reviewed their equity

• Listed their home first

• Positioned them as a strong buyer

Result:

• Sold quickly

• Bought without a contingency

• Smooth transition

The key was choosing the right strategy upfront.

The Biggest Mistakes with Contingencies

1. Not understanding how they work
→ Leads to confusion

2. Relying on contingencies in a competitive market
→ Weakens your position

3. Not having a backup plan
→ Creates stress

4. Waiting too long to act
→ Missed opportunities

So… Should You Use a Contingency?

It depends on:

• Your financial situation

• Your risk tolerance

• Market conditions in Bel Air

• Your overall strategy

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

If you’re planning to upgrade to a bigger home in Bel Air, contingencies are just one part of the overall strategy…

Next Steps

If you’re planning to buy and sell in Bel Air, Maryland:

• Understand your home’s value

• Know your equity

• Decide on your timing strategy

• Evaluate whether a contingency makes sense

Your equity also plays a major role in whether a contingency makes sense…

Jennifer Fitze is a Realtor, Associate Broker with COMPASS in Bel Air, Maryland helping homeowners navigate contingencies and move-up decisions with a clear, confident plan.

FAQ

What is a contingency in real estate?

A condition that must be met for a contract to proceed.

What is a home sale contingency?

It means your purchase depends on selling your current home.

Are contingent offers accepted in Bel Air?

Sometimes, but they can be less competitive depending on the market.

Is it better to avoid contingencies?

In competitive markets, yes—but it depends on your situation.

How do I strengthen a contingent offer?

Have your home listed, priced correctly, and show strong financials.

Quick Recap

• Contingencies protect you

• But can weaken your offer

• Strategy determines success

Jennifer Fitze
Realtor, Associate Broker
COMPASS
528 S. Main St. Bel Air, MD 21014
Cell: 443-504-7830
Email:[email protected]