Situations arise where prospective homebuyers find themselves in a bidding war with another buyer. Circumstances like this typically occur in a seller’s market where the demand for property is higher than the market can provide. In these cases, buyers often attempt to best their competitors by submitting ever-increasing offers. To help you win a bidding war, you need to stand out from other buyers. Consider the following methods that may boost your chances of securing the home you desire.
In a bidding war, the person with the highest bid ends up with the home. If you want to increase your chances of becoming the owner of a house when you have competitors, offer more money for the home. You do not have to go overboard when increasing your offer; a few hundred dollars more may make a difference. In this case, follow the guidance of an agent experienced in negotiating bidding war situations.
To give yourself a winning edge during a bidding war, show the seller you are a serious buyer and that you are prepared to see the transaction through to the end. Sellers pay more attention to buyers that come prepared and ready to finalize the contract. A pre-approval letter from your lender can give you that edge.
A contingency is asking the seller to make a concession on your behalf. Examples include closing delay contingencies based on your current home selling or your receiving proceeds from probate of a will. Other contingencies might ask the seller to repair a roof or broken window before the close of the agreement. If you decide to waive your contingencies during a bidding war, it speaks volumes to the seller of how badly you wish to proceed with the transaction. You want to be careful though when waiving contingencies so that you do not end up in a situation where you lose your earnest money–be sure it’s a risk worth taking.
Offering to make payments for the house in cash gives you a chance over other competitors. It’s not an option for everyone, but if you can pay cash rather than getting financing, put the offer on the table. If you are offering to pay cash for a property you are in a bidding war to purchase, it eliminates third parties, reduces closing time and makes the seller understand you are serious.
An escalation clause is an addendum included in your offer telling the buyer that you are willing to increase your purchase offer by a certain amount if another buyer is matching your offer. An escalation clause comes in handy when you are trying to win a closely fought bidding war.
To win a bidding war over a home, you must be strategic and ready to go the extra mile. Make sure your real estate agent knows your maximum budget and what your wiggle room is to negotiate for you appropriately.
As a top producing agent, I specialize in Oakland and S. Genesee County areas. I work with all types of Buyers and Sellers, including first time, move up, relocation, second homes, luxury homes & investors. I am a company top producer with Real Estate being my full time job. Through out my over 20 years in the business, I have been actively involved in my local Board of Realtors serving as a committee chairman, a member of the Board of Directors and as past president of my local board of Realtors. I love my job and love all things real estate. My goal is to provide you with an experience above and beyond your expectations so you will want to refer me to your friends and family. I constantly strive to build a strong working relationship with my clients. My goal is to be “Your Realtor for Life”. Let me make you and your Real Estate needs my number 1 Priority!
