Homebuyers Guide: How To Submit A Strong Offer
These three tips help you present an attractive offer on the house you love.
1. Go in Strong
In the case of multiple offers, submit your very best offer that’s within your budget first. “Offer what is reasonable and what you are willing to pay without being upset if you don’t get the house,” says Michelle Green of HER Realtors Michelle Green Professional Group. However, if there are not multiple offers on the home, “don’t show your full deck at the start,” Green says. “Offer a strong, reasonable offer and put your best foot forward, leaving some room to negotiate.”
2. Think Twice about Love Letters
Maybe you’ve heard of buyers writing personal notes to sellers, explaining why they’re perfect for the home, trying to win over their hearts in an emotional multi-bid scenario. Barb Szabo, agent with Re/Max Trinity, advises against this. “That can be construed as a buyer and agent unduly influencing a seller,” she says. Do share information such as how much of a down payment you can offer or if you don’t have a home to sell.
3. Avoid All the Asks
Sure, you could request that a seller pay for all or a portion of the closing costs, the inspections and a warranty. But in a competitive market, these asks could sway a seller toward another offer. “Don’t ask for closing costs, the kitchen table, the swing set and a warranty,” Green says.
