How to Stand Out in a Multiple-Offer Real Estate Market

In a competitive real estate market, where multiple offers on listings are the norm, knowing how to make your offer the most appealing can be the difference between securing your dream home and going back to the drawing board to find a house.

Here’s some tips on how to navigate a multiple-offer scenario with strategies that can significantly enhance your chances of having the winning offer.

Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval

The first step in making a strong offer to purchase a home is proving to the Seller you have the financial backing to complete the home purchase. Getting pre-approved by a local mortgage lender not only shows that you are serious about buying a property but also that you are ready to go forward without delays. This assurance is incredibly valuable to Sellers who are eager to move on from their property without uncertainties looming over the deal.

If you're considering buying a home and wondering how much you can afford, we're here to help! Zachary Grimmer (NMLS #2613478) with One Real Mortgage is your go-to mortgage advisor. Click HERE to explore your mortgage options.

Offer Your Highest and Best

In a multiple-offer real estate market, you often may only get one shot to make an impression on the Seller. This isn’t the time to lowball in hopes of negotiating down the road. There's a chance another homer buyer will come in and offer something higher or with better terms.

With your REALTOR's help, you should present your best offer upfront to immediately capture the Seller’s attention. By doing so, you distinguish yourself from others who may be playing it too safe. Sometimes in a multi-offer situation, the Seller may ask for "highest and best". This could mean they did not recieve an offer they like and are giving everyone an oppurtunity to resubmit or stick with their original offer.

Minimize Contract Contingencies

Every Seller desires a smooth and straightforward home sale. By reducing the number of contingencies in your offer, you simplify the process for the Seller. This could mean waiving extra inspections or being flexible on minor issues found during a home inspection. Remember, the cleaner the offer, the more attractive it is.

Working with your REALTOR, carefully evaluate where you think an issue may come up. Maybe you have extra funds and can waive the home appriasal contingency. Or, maybe you're a handyman and the home doesn't seem to have any major issues, you may want to waive the home inspection contingency or agree to cover a certain dollar amount before requesting the Seller to contribute.

Be Flexible With Closing Dates

Flexibility can be just as persuasive as the financial aspect of an offer. If you’re able to align with the Seller’s preferred timeline—whether that means a quick close or allowing them extra time to move out—you immediately increase your appeal. This shows that you’re not only thinking about what’s best for you but also considering the Seller’s needs.

One strategy we have used is offering the Seller a "leaseback". For many Sellers, they need to close on their current house in order to purchase their new home. But, settling and moving all in one day can be stressful and sometimes unrealistic. This is where a leaseback comes in handy. You could settle on your new home, then lease it to the Seller for an agreed amount of days. This would allow them to complete the legal side of the settlement process on both homes and have time to comfortably move their belongings. 

In the fast-paced world of real estate, being prepared and strategic can propel you to the front of the line. Don’t let the competition deter you; instead, use these tips to make your offer the one that Sellers can’t refuse. With the right approach, you’ll increase your chances of hearing a resounding “yes” to your dream home.

If you need more guidance or are ready to start making offers, don’t hesitate to reach out. The Zack Grimmer Group, Powered by Real is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact our team of local REALTORS today for an obligation-free chat about your real estate goals.

The Zack Grimmer Group, Powered by Real, is a Residential & Commercial Real Estate and Mortgage Team that was founded in 2021 by Zachary ‘Zack’ Grimmer. We assist our clients who are looking to BUY, RENT, SELL or INVEST in real estate throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida and Maryland! We are tech-enabled and data-driven, giving our team the necessary tools to successfully broker real estate in any market. Our mission is to provide white-glove service to our clients and investors. Browse our website at www.ZackGrimmerGroup.com to learn more about all the real estate services we offer to our community.

Please feel free to contact us at admin@ZackGrimmerGroup.com or 215-279-8519 or follow us on Facebook & Instagram, to learn more.