~3 minute lesson · Beginner · Selling a Home
Compare offers beyond the headline price
The Short Answer
Consider the money, obligations, and likelihood of completing the transaction.
How It Works
Translate each offer into comparable terms
For every offer, record price, requested credits, deposit, financing, contingencies, closing date, and possession terms. Estimate proceeds using the same assumptions. A higher price paired with a large credit can leave less money than a lower offer with different costs.
Look for execution questions
Ask your agent what is known about financing, available funds, timelines, and unresolved conditions. A cash offer can still contain contingencies; a preapproval letter is not final funding. A promise of a quick close should match the work that still has to happen.
Counter with priorities in mind
Decide which terms matter most: net proceeds, time to move, certainty, or another practical need. Keep negotiations in clear written terms and review changed provisions before accepting. Evaluate offers using relevant financial and contractual criteria, and seek guidance on applicable fair-housing obligations.
What to Remember
- Translate each offer into comparable terms
- Look for execution questions
- Counter with priorities in mind
Use one comparison sheet for net proceeds, conditions, timing, and possession.