How to Choose the Best Offer on Your Home: Expert Advice from a Local Real Estate Agent
Receiving multiple offers on your home is a great position to be in—but how do you know which one is actually the best? Many homeowners mistakenly believe the highest price is automatically the winning offer. However, experienced sellers and any knowledgeable local real estate agent will tell you: there’s much more to a strong offer than just the number on the check.
From offer timing to financing contingencies, cash strength, and flexibility around move-out dates, evaluating offers is both a science and an art. In this blog, we’ll break down how to confidently assess bids and select the right one for your unique goals. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or looking for top-dollar, working with a reputable partner like Anthony Gucciardo Real Estate can make all the difference.
Know Your Priorities Before the First Offer Arrives
Before the offers start coming in, take time to define your priorities. Every seller has a different goal:
- Speed: Do you need to move quickly for a job or school year transition?
- Certainty: Would you prefer a smooth, no-fuss sale, even if it means accepting a slightly lower offer?
- Profit: Are you aiming to maximize your return, regardless of the timeline?
Discuss these goals with your Local real estate agent early in the listing process. A good agent will tailor your sales strategy accordingly and prepare you for evaluating offers through the lens of your unique needs.
Understand What Makes a Strong Offer
When offers come in, don’t fixate on the price alone. Several key elements play a role in determining how solid—or risky—an offer might be.
1. Financing Type
- Cash Offers are king. They eliminate the risk of mortgage approval falling through and often allow for faster closings. But even with cash, always verify proof of funds.
- Financed Offers can still be strong if paired with a sizable down payment and pre-approval from a reputable lender. Ask your agent to vet the lender’s letter for legitimacy.
2. Down Payment Size
- A higher down payment (20% or more) signals financial strength and buyer seriousness.
- Buyers with minimal down payments could face tighter loan approval, which may risk delays or deal collapse.
3. Earnest Money Deposit
- The deposit amount (typically 1–5% of the offer price) reflects buyer commitment. The more money on the line, the less likely they are to walk away.
- If two offers are similar, lean toward the one with the larger deposit.
4. Contingencies
Contingencies are conditions that must be met for the sale to proceed. Fewer contingencies = a cleaner offer. Watch for:
- Financing contingency: Allows the buyer to back out if they can’t secure a mortgage.
- Home inspection contingency: Gives buyers an out if problems are found.
- Appraisal contingency: Protects buyers if the home appraises below the offer price.
- Home sale contingency: Dependent on the buyer selling their current home—often risky.
Ask your Local real estate agent to walk you through each contingency and evaluate its risk.
Consider the Buyer’s Flexibility
The best offer isn’t just about money—timing and cooperation matter too.
1. Closing Date
- Does it match your moving schedule?
- Do you need a leaseback agreement to stay in the home longer?
- Can the buyer accommodate your timeline?
A flexible buyer can be a lifesaver if you need extra time to relocate or close on another property.
2. Offer Expiration
Most offers include an expiration date. Be aware of deadlines so you don’t miss out on a great opportunity.
Don’t Underestimate the First Offer
It’s tempting to hold out, especially if you get an early offer right after listing. But as many seasoned agents will advise, the first offer is often the best—especially in a seller’s market.
Signs the first offer is strong:
- It’s a cash offer
- It comes in at or above asking price
- There are minimal contingencies
- The buyer is pre-approved
- The buyer is willing to work with your timeline
If you’re unsure, consult your Local real estate agent to compare the offer against recent neighborhood sales and buyer demand trends.
When Bidding Wars Begin—Handle With Care
If you’re lucky enough to receive multiple offers, congratulations! But remember, more offers = more decisions. Here’s how to keep control:
1. Ask for “Highest and Best”
Let all buyers know that multiple offers are in play and ask them to submit their best version. This encourages serious buyers to sweeten their terms.
2. Counter Strategically
You can choose to counter just one offer or multiple—just avoid playing buyers against each other in bad faith. Your agent should facilitate fair, respectful communication that encourages buyers without alienating them.
3. Review the Full Package
Look beyond price. If one offer includes a free leaseback, covers closing costs, and has no inspection contingency, it might be better than a slightly higher offer with more risk attached.
What Makes a “Perfect” Offer?
Here’s what an ideal offer might look like:
✅ All-cash, with verified funds
✅ Above-asking price
✅ No contingencies (inspection, appraisal, financing)
✅ Large earnest deposit (3–5% of offer price)
✅ Fast or flexible closing timeline
✅ Buyer willing to offer a leaseback
✅ Buyer pays for the new survey and covers title insurance fees
This type of offer isn’t always common—but understanding its components helps you better assess the offers you do receive.
Emotional Detachment is Crucial
Selling a home can be emotional, especially if it’s a place full of memories. But treat offers like business transactions. Avoid letting personal feelings override smart decision-making.
Tips to stay objective:
- Let your Local real estate agent guide negotiations.
- Focus on facts—terms, timelines, and money—not personalities.
- Don’t reject offers just because they ask for a small concession or seem too soon.
Real-Life Example: Strategic Offer Selection
Let’s say your $400,000 home receives two offers:
Offer A
- $410,000 (financed)
- 10% down
- Financing & inspection contingencies
- 30-day closing
- $5,000 earnest deposit
Offer B
- $405,000 (cash)
- No contingencies
- Flexible closing
- $15,000 earnest deposit
While Offer A is higher in price, Offer B is stronger in certainty and speed. Many experienced sellers—especially those needing to move fast—would pick B.
That’s where your Local real estate agent comes in. They can help you analyze each scenario from a financial and practical lens.
Need Help Evaluating Offers? Work with the Best
Choosing the best offer for your home requires more than guesswork—it demands strategic analysis and local expertise. That’s why many homeowners turn to Anthony Gucciardo Real Estate. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of market dynamics, their team helps sellers make smart, informed decisions that align with long-term goals.
For more helpful guidance, check out:
Final Thoughts
When evaluating multiple offers on your home, it’s vital to think holistically. Price is important—but certainty, speed, contingencies, and buyer commitment all carry weight.
With expert support from a trusted Local real estate agent, you can confidently choose the offer that delivers the best outcome for your situation—not just the best number.
If you’re ready to list or need help reviewing offers, turn to Anthony Gucciardo Real Estate—the local experts with a track record of delivering top results.
