You are pre-approved and ready to write an offer on the house. This is the exciting part and also the most critical part. Here are some tips to help you write a strong offer.
Listen to your Agent
Your agent will run the comps in the area and review them with you before writing the offer. They will advise you on where to start with the price. Everyone wants a deal, but sometimes you just have to settle for paying fair market value. If you are in a seller's market, making an offer that is too low will negatively impact you. Another offer written more strongly may come in and knock you out of contention.
Do you really need all of those closing costs?
Lots of buyers in the Prairieville / Baton Rouge area are asking for all of their closing costs to be paid by the seller. Again, if you may be up against other offers, a full price offer asking for $6,000 in closing cost assistance may not be attractive. If you need the assistance, go for it. If you can swing paying half of the closing costs yourself, adjust your offer accordingly.
Asking for the furniture
Many sellers will be happy to leave the refrigerator or maybe even the washer and dryer depending on where they are moving. If they are moving out of state, those items will make a difference in the weight of the moving truck, and they may want brand new items when they get where they are going. Asking for all the living room furniture, the refrigerator, and the washer/dryer plus offering less than asking price may turn off the seller. If you want those items, offer to pay for them separate from the offer.
When can you close?
Your agent will communicate with the seller's agent to find out what the seller's timeline is. If they can close in the typical 30-45 days, it is smart for you to stay within that timeline. Asking for a more extended period or asking the seller to move in two weeks may be a reason for the seller not to accept your offer.
As you can see, the ability to write a strong offer from the beginning may be the difference between becoming a homeowner or not.
If you would like an agent that will work hard for you and guide you in writing a strong offer while still looking out for your best interest, contact us today.
Posted by Kristina Cusick on
Leave A Comment