In competitive housing markets across the country, making an offer that sticks has become increasingly difficult. Do not let your offer make the process even tougher by succumbing to one of these common mistakes:
Delaying Your Offer – The worst thing you can do is wait to make an offer. Having feelings of uncertainty are completely normal, especially considering this is the probably the biggest financial decision you will ever make. However, the longer to take to make an offer the greater the chances someone else will take it right from under you.
Time kills a deal. If you drag your feet you could end up in a bidding war with another buyer or miss out altogether. Not only should you be emotionally ready, but logistically ready as well. Meaning pulling together all your paperwork (bank statements, pre-approval letter, and any documents supporting proof of funds) while house hunting.
Offering Your Max Amount – In today’s market, houses that are well priced are normally bombarded with offers, and the buyer that comes out victorious is the one who is prepared for a bidding war. Ensuring your financial arsenal is the best way to arm yourself for battle. That includes getting pre-approved to buy a home.
When you make an offer, beware of submitting the exact price you were pre-approved for. Many buyers come in with a pre-approval for the exact offer price, but when you’re competing against other offers you want to show financial strength. An exact pre-approval could make a listing agent nervous because not only does the buyer not have any wiggle room to negotiate, but they might no longer qualify if interest rates rise. In this market, it is often a good idea for buyers to look at homes under their max loan amount. When you have to bid against multiple offers, they will need some room to go up, and if they are at their maximum amount, that probably won’t happen.
Using An Obscure Lender – Also, consider using a well-known local mortgage lender or bank. Agents, and therefore sellers, are generally more comfortable with a local lender they know and trust.
Lowballing – Trust your real estate professional and bid accordingly. Even if that means offering a little more than you think you could get away with. If you lowball the seller in the hope it will spark a negotiation, that could backfire. A lowball offer that isn’t backed by math or comparable sales data is disrespectful and could turn off the seller.
Waiving the Inspection Contingency – Whether it is a new build or your mom’s house you’re buying from her, get it inspected. An inspection is the only way to uncover potential flaws that could cost major cash to fix. If you waive the inspection in your offer, you stand to lose your earnest money if you back out.
Not Selling Yourself – Since this is a seller’s market right now, the buyer needs to look as good to the seller as that picture-perfect house looks to you. Plus, it is not just about looking good on paper. In fact, the offer process begins the moment the buyer steps through the door at the open house or showing.
In today’s highly competitive environment, the listing agent is trying to determine which buyer will be the easiest to deal with. That is why buyers should avoid pointing out defects, asking a lot of nitpicky questions, or even insulting the owner’s decorating decisions. Basically, buyers who act less than enthusiastic will see themselves at a competitive disadvantage when sellers are comparing multiple offers. Also, a personal touch, such as a letter to the seller, could be enough to boost you to the top in the seller’s mind.