- A conditional sale isn't sold yet. It becomes firm when every condition is satisfied or waived in writing.
- Shorter condition periods mean less uncertainty for you.
- Plan your next steps, but don't book movers or commit to a purchase without protection until the sale is firm.
When you accept a conditional offer, the sign says "Sold, conditional," and it feels like the finish line. It's close, but not yet. Here's what's happening behind the scenes.
Common conditions
| Condition | What the buyer is doing | Typical length |
|---|---|---|
| Financing | Getting final mortgage approval, sometimes with an appraisal | 3 to 7 business days |
| Inspection | Hiring an inspector and reviewing the report | 3 to 7 days |
| Insurance | Confirming they can insure the home | A few days |
| Condo documents | Reviewing the corporation's documents | 5 to 10 days |
| Sale of buyer's home | Selling their current home | Weeks, sometimes longer |
While conditions are open
- Keep the home in the same condition as when the offer was signed.
- Allow access for the inspector and appraiser, as the offer provides.
- Keep paperwork handy: receipts, permits, warranties.
- Don't remove items included in the sale.
If the buyer asks for something after the inspection
It's common. The buyer may ask for a repair, a credit or a lower price. You can agree, counter or decline. See inspection issues and negotiation.
If the deal falls through
If a condition isn't met, the deal usually ends and the buyer's deposit is returned according to the offer. Your home goes back on the market. It happens, and it's rarely about your home itself (financing is the usual reason). We'll update the listing quickly and reach back out to buyers who showed interest.
Sale-of-home conditions
When a buyer needs to sell their own home first, many sellers accept the offer only with a clause that lets them keep marketing. If another good offer comes in, the first buyer gets a short window to remove their condition or step aside. Your lawyer and REALTOR® make sure it's written clearly.
A buyer's financing condition expires and they haven't removed it. What usually happens?
Selling with conditions on the table?
- Reply within 24 hours
- Everything in writing, in plain English or Polish
- Winnipeg and all of Manitoba
Questions people ask
Can I accept another offer while conditions are open?
Usually only in a backup position, unless the first offer includes a clause allowing it. Ask your REALTOR® and lawyer.
When can I take the sign down?
When the sale is firm, we change it to "Sold." Many sellers keep it up until possession.
This article is general information for Manitoba, not legal, tax, mortgage or financial advice. Rules, rates and programs change; figures are estimates as of October 2026. Check your situation with a lawyer, lender or accountant before you act. Adela Strycharz is a REALTOR® with Real Broker Manitoba Ltd. If you already have an agreement with another brokerage, please speak with your own REALTOR® first.