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Today I’m sharing seven tips to make your offer stick. We are becoming more and more of a competitive environment in our market where many offers are coming in on the same home. If you want your offer to outshine the competition so you can win the house, I have some tips for you:
- Work with an experienced full time agent. If you have an agent who’s out there in the marketplace every day showing houses, they’re going to be able to advise you well. If you work with a team like mine, we know about listings that will soon be coming to the market, which we can share with buyers. It’s a massive advantage.
Soon-to-be sellers call and have me come look at their property and advise them. It could be just days or a year before they’re ready to list it because they have to prepare the home for sale. Knowing these houses will eventually be coming to the market gives you the upper hand.
- Be flexible on the closing date. When writing your offer this can make it extremely appealing to the seller. If you’re flexible about when you can move, let the seller choose the closing date. Then they only have to worry about their needs on this issue, not yours.
- Think outside the box on price. If you can offer a couple thousand above the listing price, your offer will stand out. It will also have minimal impact on a monthly mortgage over 15 or 30 years.
- Eliminate contingencies. Eradicate as many contingencies as possible. If it doesn’t need to be contingent on selling your current property, don’t write it that way. If it doesn’t need to be contingent on financing, don’t check that box. Not making it contingent on an inspection is another option. The more contingencies, the more uncomfortable the seller will be.
- Don’t wait to make an offer. If you see a home and like it, don’t delay in making an offer. Get your offer in before everyone else. Buyers miss out on houses because they want to sleep on the decision or talk with family first.
- Write a letter to the seller. I know this sounds sappy, but telling the seller why the property is ideal for you and your family can give you a great edge. Maybe include pictures of you and your children.
- Include the pre-approval letter. Always include your pre-approval letter with your offer. Start out on the right foot with the seller.
For other short videos about buying and selling tips, visit my website and click on the video library link. If you have questions or want more information, please give us a call or email us. My team and I are on standby seven days a week. We look forward to assisting you.