A property listed as contingent means the seller has accepted an offer, but they've chosen to keep the listing active in case certain contingencies, or conditions, aren't met by the prospective buyer. Sellers might continue to show the home and accept backup offers while a sale is pending on contingencies.
2. What is the 48-hour kick-out clause in real estate? The 48-hour kick-out clause gives the buyer 48 hours to remove their contingencies (like selling a current home) once the seller receives another offer. If the buyer doesn't act in time, the seller can cancel the original contract and accept the new one.
But, here's some good news: Most home sales reach closing, even with contingencies attached. A survey from the National Association of REALTORS® found that in early 2024 only 5% of sales contracts on homes were terminated. Only 13% of sales contracts during those months were delayed before being settled.
The 72 hour clause is usually written into sales contracts by the seller, this allows a seller to keep the home on the market and accept backup offers on the property during. This clause is also commonly known as the escape clause, release clause, kick-out clause, hedge cause or right of first refusal clause.
Kick-Out Rights (VIE definition): The ability to remove the entity with the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance or to dissolve (liquidate) the VIE without cause.
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.
The 72 hour clause is usually written into sales contracts by the seller, this allows a seller to keep the home on the market and accept backup offers on the property during. This clause is also commonly known as the escape clause, release clause, kick-out clause, hedge cause or right of first refusal clause.