{"id":99643,"date":"2025-05-05T13:32:29","date_gmt":"2025-05-05T20:32:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=99643"},"modified":"2025-05-05T13:32:29","modified_gmt":"2025-05-05T20:32:29","slug":"backup-offer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/backup-offer\/","title":{"rendered":"What is a Backup Offer and Should You Make One?"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you\u2019re in the process of <\/span>buying a home<\/span><\/a>, you may run across a pending listing that\u2019s also accepting backup offers. You may be wondering what a backup offer is and if you can still make an offer on the home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In this Redfin article, we\u2019ll tell you what to consider before making a backup offer and why sellers accept them. Whether you\u2019re looking at <\/span>homes for sale in Boston, MA<\/span><\/a>, or <\/span>condos in Orlando, FL<\/span><\/a>, here\u2019s what to know about backup offers.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is a backup offer?<\/span><\/h2>\n

A backup offer is a secondary offer made on a home that\u2019s already under contract with another buyer. It gives you a chance to step in if the original deal falls through. While the seller has already accepted another offer, they\u2019re open to having a backup in place.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This is in case the first buyer backs out due to financing issues, inspection problems, or a change of heart. If that happens, your backup offer could move into first position, potentially saving the seller time and hassle.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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How do backup offers work?<\/span><\/h2>\n

A backup offer works as a safety net for the seller and a potential opportunity for the buyer. If you’re interested in a home that’s already under contract, you can submit a backup offer to be considered next in line. If the seller accepts it, you may sign a backup contract, which becomes legally binding only if the original deal falls through.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Until then, you’re not obligated to buy the home, and the seller isn\u2019t obligated to sell it to you. If the first buyer backs out, your contract automatically moves into place, skipping the need to re-list the home or negotiate from scratch.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is a backup contract?<\/span><\/h3>\n

A backup contract is a legally binding contract, usually including a deposit. That means if the original buyer falls through, the second buyer is automatically under contract to buy the home. Sellers may have one backup contract and additional backup offers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What to know before making a backup offer<\/span><\/h2>\n