Module 6: Offer & Negotiation Ninja
CONTINGENCIES THAT SAVE YOUR MONEY & YOUR DEAL
A contingency = your legal “get out of jail free” card.
Never, ever waive them on your first duplex.
The 3 contingencies you ALWAYS include
Inspection contingency (10–14 days)
Financing contingency (21-31 days)
Appraisal contingency (17–21 days)
Focus: The Inspection Contingency (your biggest money-maker)
Pros
• Finds hidden $5k–$50k surprises
• Gives you a second bite at negotiation — I got $7,000 cash back for several repairs that I was able to do myself.
• Lets you walk away and keep your earnest money if it’s a disaster
Cons
• In crazy hot markets, some buyers waive it to win
→ Don’t be some buyer. Your first deal is not the time to play hero.
My rule:
Always keep the inspection contingency
Always order 3 inspections: general + sewer scope + radon (≈ $400–$550 total)
Waive ONLY if you’re a licensed contractor (you’re probably not)
BONUS: Repair Request Addendum Process - What happens after inspection:
Issues found → send repair request addendum (get quotes or estimates from local vendors)
Seller credits cash or fixes → you win
Seller refuses → you walk, earnest money back, zero risk
ACTION #2 — DO THIS TODAY
Use my Repair Request Addendum Process
Open your filled offer from Lesson 1 → make sure these 3 contingencies are checked
No contingencies = gambling with $2,000+ earnest money.
Next lesson: How to negotiate when the seller counters or pushes back.
I also can outline the repair request addendum process in more detail if you’d like in a free 15-minute strategy call.