How to Make an Offer They Can't Refuse

When you’ve come this far in the home buying process, waiting to hear from the seller can be nerve-wracking. Not only have you done your due diligence, worked hard to save your money, and looked at what feels like thousands of houses… but now you have to sit back and wait for your offer to be accepted. However, there are things you can do to present a strong offer with the highest chances of acceptance. Here are some tips!

Look at Comps

Talk to your Realtor about pulling comparable listings for the area. You’ll be able to see lists of houses of similar size and layout within a few square miles. Knowing how long those houses were on the market and what they sold for plays to your advantage. Your agent can explain the market and make recommendations on whether you should come in below, at, or above asking price. And, most importantly, why.

Respect the Sellers

To put it bluntly, lowballing only happens in the movies. In some instances, if the house has been on the market for a year or more, the sellers may anticipate an offer well-below the listing price. But if it’s a newer listing in a desirable area, lowballing may actually offend the sellers. The list of reasons people put their house up for sale is long and ever-changing but, generally, it’s not for lack of loving their home. Coming in with a really low offer could be seen as insulting to sellers who have a lot of love and pride in their house. Yes, both sides want to make sure the deal is fair, but keep in mind the emotions involved.

Write a Letter

Speaking of emotions, playing to the sellers’ may be in your favor. Memories were made within those four walls and sellers love to know that they are leaving their home with someone who will cherish it as much as they did. Talk about potential plans for the future, visions you have if your offer were to be accepted, and what you intend to do in the space. While most offers generally come down to dollars and cents, a heartfelt letter may just end up sending your offer over the edge.

These are just a few small things you can do to help along your offer. Bear in mind that they are just ideas and sellers may yet end up accepting a different offer. It can’t hurt to try but always ready yourself that it may go a different direction.

For the best chances at landing your dream home, work with a Realtor you know and trust. We love going to work FOR you, so contact us today to start the entire process!