Our nation is in the midst of a serious housing crunch. Last year, a lack of inventory and soaring prices left many would-be homebuyers feeling pinched. But now, with interest rates climbing, many of them are also feeling desperate to lock in a mortgage—which has only added fuel to the fire. 1
Fortunately, if you are a buyer struggling to find a home, we have some good news. While it is true that higher mortgage rates can decrease your purchasing budget, there are additional ways to compete in a hot market.
Yes, a high offer price gets attention. But most sellers consider a variety of factors when evaluating an offer. With that in mind, here are five tactics you can utilize to sweeten your proposal and outshine your competition.
We can help you weigh the risks and benefits of each tactic and craft a compelling offer designed to get you your dream home—without giving away the farm.
- Demonstrate Solid Financing
- Put Down a Sizeable Deposit
- Ask for Few (or No) Contingencies
- Financing: A financing contingency gives the buyer a window of time in which to secure a mortgage. If they are unable to do so, they can withdraw from the purchase and the seller can move on to other buyers.
- Inspection: An inspection contingency gives the buyer the opportunity to have the home professionally inspected for issues with the structure, wiring, plumbing, etc. Typically, the seller may choose whether or not to remediate those issues; if they do not, the buyer may withdraw from the contract.
- Appraisal: Most lenders will not offer a mortgage on a home that costs more than it is worth. An appraisal contingency gives the buyer an opportunity to get the home professionally assessed to ensure that its value is at or above the sales price. If an appraisal comes in low, the seller may be asked to renegotiate the contract.
- Sale of a prior home: Some buyers cannot afford to purchase a new home until they sell their previous one. If the buyer is unable to sell their current home within a specified window of time, this contingency enables them to withdraw from the contract without penalty.
- Offer a Flexible Closing Date and/or Leaseback Option
- Work With a Skilled Buyer’s Agent
Helping You Get to the Right Offer
In many cases, a competitive offer does not need to be all-cash, contingency-free, or significantly above asking price. But if you are serious about buying a home in today’s market, it’s important to consider what you can do to sweeten the deal.
If you are a buyer, C4 Home and Land Team can help you compete in today’s market without getting steamrolled. And if you are a seller, our team can help you evaluate offers by taking all the relevant factors into account. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
1. National Association of Realtors – https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/pending-home-sales-dwindle-4-1-in-february
2. National Association of Realtors – https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/existing-home-sales-fade-7-2-in-february
3. Forbes – https://www.forbes.com/advisor/mortgages/housing-crisis-tips/
4. Realtor.com – https://www.realtor.com/advice/finance/earnest-money-deposit-mistakes-buyers-make/
5. Bankrate – https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/contingency-clause/
6. Home Buying Institute – http://www.homebuyinginstitute.com/mortgage/risks-of-waiving-a-contingency/
7. Realtor.com – https://www.realtor.com/advice/sell/what-is-a-rent-back-agreement