Presenting a Strong Offer

Presenting a Strong Offer

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WHAT MAKES A STRONG OFFER?

A Guide for Agents of Dalton Wade Real Estate Group

A strong offer gives the seller confidence in price, certainty, clean terms, and execution.

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1. Competitive & Strategic Pricing

  • At or above list price (in competitive markets)
  • Supported by current comparables
  • Escalation clause when appropriate and permitted
  • Minimal or no seller concessions

Remember:
The highest price does not always win — the safest offer often does.

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2. Financing Strength

  • Cash offers = strongest
  • Conventional financing preferred
  • 20%+ down payment strengthens position
  • Full pre-approval (not pre-qualification)
  • Reputable lender with strong communication

Attach with offer:

  • Pre-approval letter
  • Proof of funds (if cash)
  • DU/LP approval when available

Certainty of closing is critical.

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3. Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)

  • 1%–3% minimum (higher in competitive markets)
  • Delivered promptly (typically 1–3 days)
  • Consider increased deposit after inspection period (if appropriate)

Stronger EMD = stronger commitment.

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4. Appraisal Terms

  • Appraisal gap coverage when needed
  • Limited or waived appraisal contingency (risk-dependent)

Reduces seller exposure and renegotiation risk.

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5. Inspection Terms

  • Short inspection period
  • Clear repair expectations
  • Informational-only inspections when appropriate

Shorter timelines = greater seller confidence.

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6. Fewer Contingencies

Stronger offers minimize:

  • Home sale contingencies
  • Extended financing periods
  • Excessive repair demands
  • Open-ended timelines

Less uncertainty = stronger offer.

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7. Closing Timeline Flexibility

  • Align closing with seller’s preferred date
  • Offer expedited closing when beneficial
  • Consider post-closing occupancy if seller needs time

Convenience and flexibility matter.

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8. Clean, Complete Contract Submission

At Dalton Wade, professionalism matters.

Before submitting:

  • No blanks
  • All required addenda included
  • Correct dates calculated
  • Proper signatures
  • Clear, enforceable terms
  • Pre-approval / POF attached

Sloppy paperwork weakens an otherwise strong offer.

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What Sellers Typically Prioritize

  1. Certainty of closing
  2. Net proceeds
  3. Risk reduction
  4. Speed
  5. Simplicity

The strongest offer is the one that gives the seller the greatest confidence.


 

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