In real estate, the term contingent means a home is under contract, but the sale is not yet final. The buyer and seller have agreed on a price and terms, however certain conditions—called contingencies—must be met before the transaction can move forward.
Common contingencies include financing approval, a satisfactory home inspection, appraisal, and sometimes the sale of the buyer’s current home. Until these items are resolved, the property remains in contingent status.
A contingent home is still technically available, but it comes with limitations. Sellers are typically waiting on the current buyer to remove contingencies, while buyers may still submit backup offers in case the deal falls apart. Not all contingent listings accept showings, so availability can vary.
There are also different types of contingent statuses. “Contingent – continue to show” means the seller is open to additional interest. “Contingent – no show” usually signals the seller is confident the deal will close once conditions are met.
For buyers, a contingent listing can still be an opportunity. For sellers, contingencies help protect both sides by allowing time to verify financing, value, and condition.
Understanding what contingent means in real estate helps you read the market more clearly and make better timing decisions, whether you’re buying, selling, or tracking available inventory.
