In todays market it is difficult to tie up a new home purchase with a contingency. The idea is that you commit to purchase the new home at an agreed upon price contingent on you existing home selling for a specific price. Sellers are reluctant to take their home off the market while you attempt to sell yours. They obviously want the opportunity to continue to market their home while you sell yours. If a cash deal comes along they may want out of your deal. They will request a contingency of their own. If an offer comes along for cash they give you first right of refusal and take the deal. Art Falcone would be a good realtor to navigate this deal for you.