Ready to put an offer in on a house? Congratulations!
Before you dive in, it’s worth knowing how to give yourself the best possible chance of getting your offer accepted, without just throwing more money at it.
While estate agents are legally required to pass on every offer to the seller, they can’t tell you if someone else has gone higher or lower than you.
That means how you present your offer just as important as the offer itself.
So, how do you stand out from the crowd and make a strong, strategic offer? Our expert tips will walk you through exactly what to do next.
✅ DO: make a strong, strategic offer
Starting low with a view to “haggle up” might seem like the obvious play but in a competitive market, it could backfire.
You want to lead with a fair offer that reflects the property’s true value. Sellers will take you more seriously if you show you’ve done your homework and aren’t just testing the waters.
✅ DO: get legally prepared early
Being ‘offer ready’ isn’t just a phrase. It means having a conveyancer or solicitor lined up who can act quickly once your offer is accepted. This shows sellers you are serious and prepared, which is especially appealing if they’re looking for a smooth, hassle-free sale.
Need a reliable solicitor?
Speak to Jephson Legal for a free conveyancing estimate.
✅ DO: secure a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP)
An AIP from a mortgage provider is a document that proves you have been pre-approved for a mortgage up to a certain amount.
It’s a powerful tool in negotiations, as it reassures the seller (and their agent) you are financially able to follow through with your property purchase.
Get pre-approved quickly with Ernest Grant Mortgages.
✅ DO: know your maximum budget – and stick to it
It’s easy to get emotionally invested in a property and overstretch, but knowing your financial ceiling (and walking away if needed) keeps you in control.
Set a firm, upper limit and factor in extra costs (surveys, solicitor fees, moving expenses etc). Not sure how much to budget for?
Read our guide on moving costs here.
✅ DO: research sold prices, not just asking prices
Before making an offer, research actual sale prices for similar properties in the area – not just what’s currently on the market. This gives you a realistic benchmark and strengthens your case when justifying your offer.
Use websites like Rightmove or Zoopla to research sold prices or ask your estate agent for comparable sales data.
✅ DO: be flexible on timelines (if you can)
A chain-free buyer who’s flexible on moving dates is gold dust to many sellers.
If you are in a position to accommodate the seller’s preferred timeline, make it known in your offer – it could give you the edge over a slightly higher offer with a complicated chain.
❌ DON’T: get too emotionally attached
It’s natural to fall in love with a property but letting emotions drive negotiations can lead to overpaying or ignoring red flags.
Stay objective and focus on the facts: the property’s condition, its market value and your budget.
❌ DON’T: leave it too long to make your move
If you’re keen, don’t hang about. Properties can go under offer quickly, especially in a busy market. If the home ticks your boxes, submit a well-thought-out offer as soon as you can.
The estate agent’s role in negotiations
To make a strong offer on a house, it’s important to understand how the estate agent fits into the process:
• Presenting offers
They’re legally obliged to present every offer to the seller, no matter the amount.
• Negotiating offers
While they work for the seller, a good agent wants the sale to proceed smoothly. They’ll mediate between both parties to find an agreement that works.
• Navigating issues
Whether it’s survey results, renegotiations, or timescale clashes, the agent helps resolve sticking points to keep the sale on track.
• Maintaining momentum
A pro-active agent ensures things move forward by chasing solicitors, lenders and keeping all parties informed.
Final tip: communication is key
Stay in touch with the estate agent, respond quickly to requests and maintain a friendly but professional tone. Sellers often favour buyers who are easy to deal with, even if the offer isn’t the highest.
Still looking for your next home?
Beat the crowds and view properties before they go live on portals like Rightmove or Zoopla with See It Here First.
