As of the end of 2021, fewer buyers are choosing to waive contingencies than earlier in the year. This is a return to normalcy, as the frequency of waivers was inflated during the period of heavy competition. Buyers had sought to improve sellers’ perception of their offers by foregoing things such as inspections and appraisals in order to expedite the process. As competition dwindled, fewer buyers felt the need to do that. In addition, the appraisal process is starting to move faster with increased vaccination rates, and home prices remaining high means buyers want to make sure they’re getting their money’s worth.
The percent of people who did not waive any contingencies increased steadily from the trough of 21% in June to the peak in December of 40%. Inspection and appraisal contingencies were most often waived, though there are other types of contingencies. For waivers of inspection contingencies, the peak was 27% in July, down to 19% in November and December. The percent waiving appraisal contingencies decreased from 29% in June to 21% in November and December.
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