Everything You Need to Know
Buying a home is exciting, but making an offer can feel like a high-stakes negotiation. This guide walks you through how to prepare, what to consider, and how to secure the most suitable deal on your future home.
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STEP 1
Research and Preparation
Before making an offer, gather key information to strengthen your position:
- Check Local Sale Prices – Research recently sold properties of similar size and condition in the same area.
- Time on Market – A home that’s been listed for a long time may mean the seller is open to lower offers.
- Seller Motivation – Ask why the seller is moving. If they need a quick sale, they may be more flexible
- Property History – Have there been price reductions or previous offers? If so, why didn’t they proceed?
- Get Your Mortgage in Place – A Mortgage Agreement in Principle (MIP) makes you a serious buyer.
STEP 2
Decide Your Offer Strategy
Not every property will sell at its asking price. Consider these factors:
- If Competition is Low – Start below the asking price to leave room for negotiation
- If Competition is High – You may need to match or exceed the asking price to stand out
- If Work is Needed – Factor in renovation costs when calculating your offer
- If the Seller Needs a Quick Sale – A chain-free, mortgage-ready buyer (like you!) can be more attractive
Making an Offer Tip
Avoid “cheeky” offers that are too low—they can offend the seller and shut down negotiations.
STEP 3
Making the Offer
Once you’ve decided on the amount, follow these steps:
- Submit Your Offer – Call or email the estate agent to formally submit your price and terms
- Put It in Writing – Confirm your offer via email so there’s a record of the terms discussed
- Include Conditions – Example: "This offer is subject to a satisfactory survey and mortgage approval."
- Show You’re a Serious Buyer – Highlight your mortgage approval, chain-free status, and flexibility on move-in dates
STEP 4
Negotiating Like a Pro
If your first offer isn’t accepted, don’t panic! Here’s how to negotiate effectively:
- Ask for Feedback – Why was the offer rejected? Can you adjust terms rather than price?
- Consider a Counteroffer – Increase in small increments if necessary
- Look Beyond Price – Could the seller include appliances or furniture?
- Don’t Overstretch – Know your budget and maximum offer before negotiations begin
Step 5
Next Steps After Your Offer is Accepted
Celebrate! But don’t relax just yet—there are still a few things to do:
- Get It in Writing – The estate agent should confirm the accepted offer in writing
- Instruct Your Solicitor – Begin legal checks and searches
- Arrange a Property Survey – Ensure there are no hidden issues
- Finalise Your Mortgage – Submit your application to move towards exchange and completion
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FAQ
on
Making
an
Offer
How do you make an offer on a house?
An offer is usually made through the estate agent, either verbally or in writing. You’ll normally need to confirm your offer price, preferred completion timescale, and whether you have a mortgage Agreement in Principle in place.
How much should I offer on a house?
The amount you offer depends on factors such as the asking price, local market conditions, comparable recent sales, and the condition of the property. Buyers often start below the asking price, particularly in slower markets or where work is required.
Should I offer the asking price or below?
Offering below the asking price is common, especially if the property has been on the market for a while or there are comparable properties priced lower. In competitive markets, some buyers may offer at or above asking price.
Does having an Agreement in Principle help when making an offer?
Yes. Having an Agreement in Principle can strengthen your offer by showing the seller you are financially prepared and able to proceed, which may make your offer more attractive than a higher offer without proof of affordability.
What information should I include with my offer?
You may be asked to provide details such as your deposit amount, mortgage position, preferred timescale, and whether you are part of a chain. Providing clear information can help sellers assess your position more confidently.
Can a seller reject or negotiate my offer?
Yes. Sellers can accept, reject, or negotiate an offer. They may come back with a counteroffer, request changes to the price, or ask for more information about your position.
What happens after an offer is accepted?
Once an offer is accepted, the property is usually marked as sold subject to contract. You then instruct a solicitor, submit your mortgage application, and arrange surveys before progressing toward exchange and completion.
Can a seller accept another offer after accepting mine?
Yes. Until contracts are exchanged, sellers can accept another offer. This practice is known as gazumping and is legal in England and Wales.
What is gazundering?
Gazundering occurs when a buyer reduces their offer shortly before exchange of contracts, often following a survey or market change. While legal, it can cause delays or risk the transaction falling through.
What mistakes should buyers avoid when making an offer?
Common mistakes include overstretching financially, offering without checking affordability, failing to research local prices, and making emotional decisions without proper due diligence.
