How Do I Make an Offer on a Home?
- By Jim Blackburn
- on
- 100 first time home buyer FAQs
1. Work With Your Agent to Price It Right
Before anything is signed, you’ll want to discuss your offer strategy with your real estate agent. They’ll look at market trends and recent nearby sales—also known as “comps”—to help you land on a price that’s competitive but fair. In a seller’s market, you may need to come in strong. In a buyer’s market, there may be room to negotiate. Either way, your agent is your guide.
Need a trusted buyer’s agent to guide your offer strategy? Get An Introduction to experienced real estate professionals who know your local market and can help you craft competitive, winning offers.
2. Submit a Written Offer With All the Details
Your offer isn’t just a price—it’s a full proposal. It will include:
- The purchase price
- Contingencies (like inspection or financing)
- Your earnest money deposit
The proposed closing date
Your agent handles all the paperwork, but you’ll review and sign off on everything before it’s submitted to the seller. This is the official step that gets the conversation started.
Before making an offer, understand your complete financial picture. Calculate your Conventional Purchase Loan Payment now to know exactly what you can afford—including earnest money, down payment, and monthly payments—so your offer is backed by solid financing.
3. Be Ready for Negotiation
It’s rare for a seller to accept the first offer exactly as written. Expect a counteroffer and be ready to adjust. Your agent will help you decide what to stand firm on and where there may be room to compromise. The goal is to reach an agreement that works for both sides—and gets you one step closer to home.
Understanding market value gives you negotiation leverage. Get a Free Home Evaluation to see what comparable homes are selling for and know whether you should stand firm or adjust your offer based on real market data.
Ready to Make a Winning Offer With Confidence?
At Stairway Mortgage, we don’t just help you make an offer—we help you make the right one.
📘 Download our homebuyer guides with offer checklists.
🤝 Get An Introduction to trusted buyer’s agents.
🧮 Know your budget with our Conventional Purchase Calculator.
🏠 Get a Free Home Evaluation for market insights.
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