Short answerStart with recent comparable sales nearby, adjust for condition and the repairs the house will need, and consider how long it has been on the market and how much competition you face. Then decide terms, not just price: inspection time, closing date, earnest money, and any credit you need. Price and terms together make an offer strong.
The four inputs
- Comparable sales: similar homes sold recently nearby.
- Condition: planning costs for what the house needs. What the inspection may find.
- Market time: new listings with interest move faster than ones sitting for weeks.
- Your terms: what you need and what you can give.
A free Before You Offer review puts all four on one page for buyers not already working with an agent.
Frequently asked questions
Should I offer below asking price?
Sometimes. Let comparable sales and condition decide, not a rule of thumb.
What makes an offer strong besides price?
A solid approval, reasonable inspection terms, a closing date that works for the seller, and earnest money.
Keep reading
Looking at a house and not sure what you are getting into?
Ask for a free Before You Offer review. Send me the listing. I look over the photos, the seller's disclosure, and recent sales, then flag likely condition issues and planning cost ranges before you write an offer.
Request a Before You Offer reviewOr call or text (812) 525-5489, or email [email protected].
The Before You Offer review is a REALTOR® and contractor review of the listing, not a home inspection. It is for buyers who are not already working with an agent. If you have an agent, please bring these questions to your agent.
Written by John Long, REALTOR®, 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate. Working contractor who has priced hundreds of home inspection repair requests. Former labor relations negotiator for a major manufacturer and U.S. Coast Guard veteran.
John Long, REALTOR® · 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate · (812) 525-5489 · yourpropertynegotiator.com
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional home inspection, and not legal, tax, insurance, or lending advice. Ask a real estate attorney about contracts and disclosure, a CPA about taxes, your lender about loan rules, and a licensed inspector or tradesperson about your house. Nothing here guarantees a sale price, net proceeds, repair cost, payment, timeline, appraisal, inspection result, or loan approval. Cost figures are planning estimates, not bids. I own Wardmark Property Operations LLC, a contracting company. You are always free to use any contractor you choose.