🏡 Buyer’s Agents: Don’t Let “Under Contract” Stop You

Why Now Is the Time for Back-Up Offers — Especially in Texas

Have you ever shown up to a property with buyers excited and ready to make their move… only to find out it’s already under contract? 😩
It’s a punch to the gut—and we’ve all been there. But here’s what most agents don’t realize:

Just because it’s under contract doesn’t mean it’s off the table.

In today’s market, back-up offers are more valuable than ever. Let’s break down why this strategy matters now more than ever.

📉 Home Contract Cancellations Are Surging

We’ve seen it firsthand—two deals canceled just this month. The buyers had already been pre-approved and reviewed their payment estimates but backed out at the last minute. Why?
The monthly payment “just didn’t feel right.”

And this is far from an isolated trend.

📊 National Stats You Should Know:

• 14.9% of contracts were canceled in June 2024 — the highest ever for that month

• 14.3% of pending home sales didn’t close in January 2025

• 13.4% of contracts fell through in March 2025, making it the third-highest March on record (outside of the pandemic)

Buyers are nervous. The market is shifting. And deals are falling apart at record levels.

📍 Texas Leads the Nation in Cancellations

If you're in Texas, this is especially important:
➡️ San Antonio and Fort Worth are reporting cancellation rates well above the national average of 13.4%.

This means homes across the state are quietly becoming available again—and smart buyer’s agents are jumping on it.

✅ Why Submit a Back-Up Offer?

Too many agents scratch a home off the list once they see “under contract.” But here's why back-up offers are more powerful than ever:

💡 Back-Up Offers Give Your Clients:

• A second chance — they’re next in line if the deal falls through

• Less competition — most buyers won’t bother submitting one

• Negotiation leverage — sellers may be more flexible the second time around

You’d be surprised how many deals fall through at the 11th hour. Be ready.

💬 Pro Tip: Educate Your Clients

Your buyers might assume "under contract" means "off-limits." Let them know that a home under contract today could easily come back next week—and if they’ve already submitted a back-up offer, they’re first in line.

It’s a move that could win them the house without another bidding war.

✨ Sellers — This Impacts You, Too

This isn’t just a buyer’s market shift.

What sellers need to know:

• Buyers are walking away more easily

• Negotiations are getting tougher

• More concessions are being requested

• Pricing strategy and flexibility are critical to making it to closing

If you’re working with sellers, help them understand how important it is to stay proactive and realistic to avoid contract fallout.

📌 Final Takeaway

If you’re a buyer’s agent in Texas, this is your chance to shine.
Back-up offers aren’t just a last resort—they’re a smart, strategic move in a market full of second chances.

The data is clear: contracts are falling through at a historic pace, especially here in the Sunbelt. Agents who understand this—and act on it—will help their clients win big.

Need Help Navigating the Market?

That’s what we’re here for. Whether it's loan strategy, buyer education, or market insights—we’ve got your back.

💬 Jenny & Jorge Aldrete
📍 Luxe Mortgage Team | Powered by CrossCountry Mortgage
📧 [email protected] | 📱 512.699.5267
📝 NMLS 318281, 2416696, 3029
🏠 Serving Texas & 46 other states
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