Module 5: Making an Offer

The offer is where the rubber meets the road. A well-structured offer signals to the seller that you're a serious, capable buyer — and gives you legal protections if things go wrong.

Pricing Your Offer

Your buyer's agent will provide a CMA. Study it carefully. In a balanced market, offer within 2–5% of list price. In a seller's market, offering at or above list with strong terms may be necessary. In a buyer's market, there's room to negotiate — start 3–7% below list and expect counteroffers.

Essential Contingencies

• Inspection contingency: Right to terminate or renegotiate based on findings.
• Financing contingency: Right to terminate if you can't get your loan.
• Appraisal contingency: Right to renegotiate if the property appraises below purchase price.
• Title contingency: Protects against title defects discovered before closing.