Why You Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Make an Offer on a Home
If you’re in the process of house hunting, you might find yourself hesitating to make offers on properties. Perhaps you’re unsure whether it's the right fit, or you’re concerned about potential financial risks.
The truth is, making an offer on a home is a no-strings-attached step that could set you on the path to your dream home without any initial obligation.
Here’s why you shouldn’t be afraid to take that step:
1. It’s Completely Free
One of the most significant misconceptions about submitting an offer on a home is that it somehow locks you in financially right away. In reality, making an offer costs you nothing upfront. Until both you and the seller agree on the price and terms, there is no binding commitment. You’re simply initiating a conversation, expressing interest, and testing the waters.
2. Offers Aren’t Binding Until Both Parties Agree
Making an offer does not mean you’re committing to the purchase at the price listed. In fact, a home sale only becomes binding once both parties come to an agreement on all terms—price, contingencies, timelines, and more. Until the seller accepts your offer, you are free to walk away or renegotiate.
3. Your Offer Can Be Contingent on Key Factors
Most offers include standard contingencies such as:
- Inspection – Ensures the home is in satisfactory condition.
- Appraisal – Confirms the property’s value aligns with your offer.
- Financing – Protects you if you’re unable to secure a mortgage loan.
These contingencies act as safeguards, giving you the ability to withdraw from the agreement if unexpected issues arise.
So, if you find out the home needs significant repairs or it doesn’t appraise for the offered price, you can adjust your offer or walk away without penalty.
4. It Opens Up a Dialogue
Submitting an offer doesn’t just show you’re interested—it opens up communication with the seller. In many cases, sellers are willing to negotiate. Maybe they’ll consider a lower price, or perhaps they’ll agree to cover closing costs. The point is, making an offer is the first step to finding common ground.
5. You Have Nothing to Lose
At the end of the day, if your offer isn’t accepted, you’re no worse off than you were before. But if it is accepted, you could find yourself in a strong negotiating position to purchase a home you love at a price you can afford. It’s a win-win situation.
Pardee Case Study
Our clients were initially discouraged when they found their dream home. The property had 17 competing offers, including some all-cash, and was expected to go well over asking. They felt their chances were slim and were hesitant to make an offer.
However, thanks to their agent, Melissa's, close relationship with the listing agent, they understood exactly what the seller was looking for. She encouraged them to submit their best offer, and worked with the lender to secure a 14-day loan contingency and a 17-day close—terms that would help compete with cash offers.
By staying in close contact with the listing agent and strategizing about what would make their offer stand out, they won the home—even with such fierce competition. If they had held back, they could have missed out on their dream property, but by taking the leap and making an offer, they turned their hopes into reality.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back
If you’re serious about finding a home, don’t let fear or uncertainty prevent you from making an offer. It’s a risk-free way to start a dialogue and put yourself in the best possible position to land the property you want. And with contingencies in place, you’re protected every step of the way.
At Pardee Properties, we’re here to guide you through the process, helping you make confident offers that align with your goals and budget. Let’s get started on turning your dream home into a reality!
Would you like help understanding the process further or want advice on when and how to make the right offer? Let's connect!
