Buyers: 🏡 What to Do Before Submitting an Offer on a Home

Dated: July 15 2025

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You’ve found the one. The house you can picture yourself living in, decorating, and calling home. Before you rush to write up an offer, here are a few key things to check off your list to make sure you’re putting yourself in the best possible position as a buyer:

1️⃣ Confirm Your Financing

This seems obvious, but it’s worth repeating: make sure your pre-approval is current and solid. A strong offer starts with proof that you’re financially ready to close. Double-check your loan type, your down payment, and any lender-specific requirements.

Tip: If you’re considering offering over list price or waiving contingencies, chat with your lender about how that might impact your approval.

2️⃣ Review the HOA / Property Details

Is there an HOA? Are there monthly dues? Are there rental restrictions? Does the home need flood insurance? Before you write an offer, it’s good to know what you’re committing to so you’re not surprised down the road.

3️⃣ Understand the Market

Are homes in this area selling in hours with multiple offers? Or sitting on the market for weeks? Understanding the local market will help us craft a competitive (but smart) offer strategy. Sometimes that means coming in strong. Other times, patience and negotiation are key.

4️⃣ Ask About Recent Disclosures

Have there been prior inspection reports? Sewer scopes? Major repairs? Let’s ask upfront — it might impact how you want to structure your offer, and it’s always better to know before you’re under contract.

5️⃣ Walk the Neighborhood (If You Haven’t Already)

If you’ve only seen the house and not the area, take a walk around. Check out the vibe at different times of day. Does it feel like a fit for your lifestyle? Remember: you’re not just buying a home, you’re buying into a community.

6️⃣ Clarify Your Non-Negotiables

Before emotions get involved in negotiations, be clear on what really matters to you:

  • Do you need a certain closing date?
  • Are you willing to waive inspection objections?
  • Is that fridge deal-breaking?

Having clarity helps avoid regrets later.

Final Thought:

Submitting an offer is exciting, but preparation is key to making sure it’s the right offer — one that protects you, aligns with your goals, and sets you up for success.

If you’re ready, I’m here to guide you through every step of the process. Let’s go find your home!

Blog author image

Angelica Olmsted

Angelica’s path into real estate is rooted in a life full of diverse experiences and a deep appreciation for what “home” means. Growing up as an Air Force brat meant constant moves, and later, h....

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