The Top 3 Ways To Get Your Offer Accepted When Buying a House

Buying a house can be an emotional and stressful process, especially when you find the home of your dreams and realize you’re not the only interested party. In competitive housing markets, having your offer accepted can feel like winning the lottery. While there’s no surefire way to guarantee your offer will be the one that’s accepted, there are tactics that can improve your odds.

Here are the top 3 ways to get your offer accepted when buying a house:

The Top 3 Ways To Get Your Offer Accepted When Buying a House

1. Pre-Approval and Proof of Funds: Show You’re a Serious Buyer

The first thing you can do to make your offer appealing is to show you’re a serious buyer, financially capable of purchasing the home. This involves getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Pre-approval means a lender has reviewed your financial situation and determined how much you can afford to borrow. It’s a step beyond pre-qualification, which is a more informal estimate of your financial situation.

Once you’re pre-approved, include the pre-approval letter with your offer. If you’re paying in cash, a proof of funds statement can serve a similar purpose. This shows the seller that you’re not only interested but also capable of completing the purchase, setting you apart from other potential buyers who might still be figuring out their financing.

2. A Personal Touch: Write a Compelling Offer Letter

It might seem old-fashioned in today’s digital world, but a heartfelt letter to the seller can make your offer stand out. Home sellers are not just looking for the highest offer; they want to know that their home will be in good hands. Your letter should not only explain why you’re the right buyer but also why the home is the right fit for you and your family.

Share specifics about what you love about the house—perhaps the large backyard is perfect for your two dogs, or the home office is just what you need for your remote job. Making an emotional connection with the seller can offer a competitive advantage over other buyers. Just remember to keep it sincere; most people can spot a disingenuous letter from a mile away.

3. Be Flexible and Accommodating: Align with the Seller’s Needs

Every home sale is unique, and each seller will have different needs and priorities. One of the most effective ways to make your offer attractive is to be as flexible and accommodating as possible.

• Closing Date: If the seller needs a quick close, be prepared to expedite your mortgage approval and other closing tasks. If the seller needs more time, perhaps because they’re purchasing another home themselves, offer a more extended closing period.
• Contingencies: Contingencies are conditions that must be met for the sale to go through, like home inspections or mortgage approval. While it’s not wise to waive all contingencies, you could consider shortening the contingency periods or offering a higher amount of earnest money.
• Rent-Back Agreement: Some sellers need extra time to move out. In this situation, a rent-back agreement allows the seller to rent the home back from you for a specified period after the closing.

Being flexible and accommodating can make all the difference in a competitive market. Show the seller that you’re willing to work with them, and your offer will be more attractive.

Getting your offer accepted in a competitive housing market is not easy, but these three strategies can significantly improve your chances. By showing you’re a serious buyer through pre-approval, connecting emotionally with a well-crafted offer letter, and demonstrating flexibility to meet the seller’s needs, you’ll be well on your way to securing your dream home.

If you’ve got questions, we’ve got answers!