When homes are flying off the market in days (or even hours), it’s not enough to simply submit an offer and hope for the best. Sellers are often reviewing multiple offers—and choosing the one that gives them the strongest combination of price, terms, and confidence in the buyer’s ability to close. If you’re serious about landing a home in a competitive market, you need to be strategic. Here’s how to put yourself in the best possible position to get your offer accepted.
Get Pre-Approved Before You Even Start Looking
Sellers want to know you’re not just serious, but ready. A pre-approval letter shows that a lender has already reviewed your financials and is willing to loan you the money, subject to the final approval process. This carries more weight than a pre-qualification, which is based on unverified information. A solid pre-approval letter can give sellers the confidence that your offer won’t fall through because of financing.
Work With a Local Agent Who Knows the Market to Get Your Offer Accepted
In a tight market, having the right agent matters. A local agent with strong relationships and knowledge of the area can give you a serious edge. They can spot opportunities before they hit the broader market, advise you on realistic pricing strategies, and sometimes even get insight into what a seller is looking for beyond the dollar amount. An experienced agent knows how to package and present your offer to make it stand out.
Write a Clean Offer With Fewer Contingencies
Contingencies protect buyers, but in a competitive market, too many can kill your chances. If you’re able to remove certain contingencies—like waiving a home sale contingency or shortening inspection periods—you’re making the offer simpler and more appealing to the seller. You shouldn’t skip the home inspection, but you can commit to a quick turnaround which can go a long way.
Be Fast and Decisive
If you see a home you like, don’t wait. Get in to see it right away, and if it’s the right fit, be ready to make an offer quickly. In hot markets, homes don’t sit long. Delaying by even a day or two can mean losing out. If you’re working with an agent who’s on top of the listings and communication, you’ll be ready to move when the time comes.
Offer a Strong Earnest Money Deposit
An earnest money deposit shows you’re committed and willing to put skin in the game. A larger deposit signals strength and seriousness. Sellers see this as a sign you won’t walk away lightly. If you’re offering a decent amount—usually 1-3% of the purchase price—it adds weight to your offer, especially if other terms are close.
Get Your Offer Accepted with a Personal Touch if It Fits
In some cases, a well-written letter to the seller can help tip the scales. This won’t matter to every seller, but some still care about who’s buying their home. If you go this route, keep it short and genuine. Share what you loved about the home and why you see yourself living there. Just be careful not to reveal anything that could backfire during negotiations.
Be Flexible With the Seller’s Timeline
Some sellers want to move quickly. Others need more time. If your offer is flexible with things like the closing date or even a rent-back period, you’re making it easier for the seller to say yes. Let your agent find out what the seller needs and tailor your offer accordingly. In a multiple-offer situation, small adjustments like this can make a big difference.
Consider an Escalation Clause to Get Your Offer Accepted
If you’re in a bidding war, an escalation clause can automatically increase your offer up to a set limit if another buyer comes in higher. This lets you stay competitive without constantly re-submitting new offers. It also shows the seller that you’re ready to fight for the home, but still have a clear ceiling.
FAQs
How much over asking should I offer in a competitive market?
That depends on the local market and how much interest the home is getting. Your agent can help you determine what’s realistic. Sometimes it’s $5,000 over, sometimes $25,000 or more. It’s not just the price that wins—it’s the full package.
Will waiving the inspection help me win the house?
It might, but it carries risk. A better option is to shorten the inspection period or agree to buy the home as-is, while still having the inspection for peace of mind. This protects you without scaring off the seller.
Can I still get a deal in a hot market?
It’s possible, but rare. Focus more on finding a home that fits your long-term needs than trying to get a steal. The best “deal” is locking in a home before prices go up even more.
What happens if I lose out on multiple homes?
It’s frustrating, but common in a competitive market. Stay patient, stick with your plan, and stay ready. The right one will come along—and you’ll be better prepared when it does.
If you’re serious about buying in this market, you need more than just a good offer—you need a smart strategy.
A&D Home Inspection provides home inspection services to Central Florida. Contact us to schedule an appointment.