“Should I accept a buyer’s contingent offer in the Fort Worth area this year?”
Short answer: Maybe—choose contingencies with verified underwriting, tight timelines, and clear appraisal language. We’ll structure protections so you sell home without getting stuck. 🧩📝

The quick filter we use 🧪

  • Buyer strength: desktop-underwritten approval (DU/LP), proof of funds for gaps/EMD.

  • Timelines: short option, defined financing/appraisal dates, realistic go-live date on their home.

  • Kick-out clause or backup offer to keep leverage.

Why contingent deals can still work in 2026 around DFW 📈

With Fort Worth ~61 DOM, good houses still move; contingent buyers with a listed, show-ready home can be low-risk. In Cleburne/Johnson County pockets near 90+ DOM, the right contingent offer can fill the gap and get you closed with certainty.

Protect yourself with terms (Texas-specific) 🛡️

  • Kick-out clause / Back-Up Addendum to continue marketing and accept a backup.

  • Earnest + option: real skin in the game.

  • Milestone check-ins on the buyer’s sale (listed, price updates, showings).

  • Seller’s Temporary Residential Lease-Back if dates misalign—use TREC 15-7 (effective Jan 5, 2026); if you’re the buyer on your next place, consider TREC’s Addendum for Sale of Other Property by Buyer (10-6) when needed.

When to say yes 👍

  • Buyer is fully underwritten and their home is live + fairly priced.

  • They agree to short option and firm appraisal/financing dates.

  • You hold a strong backup or a kick-out for safety.

When to say not yet ✋

  • Their home isn’t listed, or pricing is unrealistic.

  • Pre-approval is surface-level; no desktop/underwriting.

  • Timelines are loose and inspection asks are uncapped.

Local pacing to set expectations 📍

  • 76107 moves faster (~53 DOM); you can be pickier on terms.

  • 76033 often beats 76031 on speed (≈ 80 DOM vs. 137 DOM), so calibrate risk accordingly.

Compliance & ethics ⚖️

We follow Fair Housing, NAR/RESPA, and Texas rules. We’ll disclose partner relationships and never tie services to a specific lender. For contractual/lease-back specifics, consult your Texas real-estate attorney if needed.

 

CTA: Debating a contingent offer right now? Call or DM the Texan Heritage Team—we’ll vet the buyer, structure protections, and keep your move on track. 📲