Technically, yes — a seller can back out of a contingent offer. Before agreeing, they can choose to reject or counter the original offer with their own terms. Once the offer is accepted, if the contingencies aren't met, the seller can back out but there may be legal or financial implications involved.
If there is a problem meeting the conditions of the sale, such as the buyer's finance arrangements falling through or they are unhappy with the results of a building inspection and decide to withdraw from the sale, the buyer must let their lawyer or conveyancer know as soon as possible.
Contingent contracts usually occur when negotiating parties fail to reach an agreement. The contract is characterized as "contingent" because the terms are not final and are based on certain events or conditions occurring. A contingent contract can also be viewed as protection against a future change of plans.
One such contract is the contingency contract, which adds an element of flexibility and risk mitigation. Contingency contract is a legally binding document that specifies a condition that needs to be met before the contract can be executed.
The contingency permits the buyer to sell his or her current home before buying a new one so that the buyer is not saddled with two mortgages at once. Insurance contingency clauses allow home buyers to back out of a sale if they cannot secure home insurance for the property.