Accepting An Offer

The First Offer is Usually Your Best Offer.

Though this is usually true. I know you are hiring me to get you the most money in your pocket. To me, the terms are just as important. Are the buyers well qualified and how much are they putting down? When are they looking to close? Are they asking for repairs? Most homeowners think the higher the offer, the better the offer…not necessarily.  I’ve seen deals fall apart because the seller insisted on going with the highest offer.

Negotiating The Best Offer.

My negotiating skills are second to none. My commitment is to get you the most possible for your home. When a written offer is sent to me…the first thing I do is call the buyer’s mortgage broker. I find out what they are qualified to pay up to. I use this information to negotiate in your best interest. Sometimes there are multiple offers. I will use this information to get buyers to pay a higher amount. I will bring you the best offer and then you decide if you want to accept it.

The Initial Agreement and Deposit.

Once we agree on price and terms, my job is to get the contract signed as soon as possible. I prepare a deal sheet and get the information over to your attorney immediately and ask to get contracts out within 24 hours. My philosophy is to strike while the Iron is hot. In other words, move quickly. The buyers will put a substantial amount down, at contract signing. This will be held in your attorney’s escrow account.

Some important tips to streamline the process:

Everything Should Be in Writing.

For the sake of clarity, anything that was agreed with the buyer will be put in the contract. The closing date; mortgage amount; what’s included with the sale; and all contingencies.

Stay on Top of the Deal.

My job is not over once the contracts are signed. I am involved in moving the transaction along so we can get to the closing table on time. I need to make sure the buyer applies for their mortgage immediately; make sure the appraisal is done in a timely matter; if a survey is needed, have the buyers order one right away; call the mortgage broker to check on when the buyer will get a commitment; check with the buyer’s attorney to see if title insurance was ordered.