Thinking of Making an Offer? 4 Tips for Success

So you’ve been searching for that perfect house to call a ‘home,’ and you finally found one! The price is right, and in such a competitive market that you want to make sure you make a good offer so that you can guarantee your dream of making this house yours comes true!

Freddie Mac covered “4 Tips for Making an Offer” in their latest Executive Perspective. Here are the 4 Tips they covered along with some additional information for your consideration:

1. Understand How Much You Can Afford

“While it’s not nearly as fun as house hunting, fully understanding your finances is critical in making an offer.”

This ‘tip’ or ‘step’ really should take place before you start your home search process.

As we’ve mentioned before, getting pre-approved is one of many steps that will show home sellers that you are serious about buying, and will allow you to make your offer with the confidence of knowing that you have already been approved for a mortgage for that amount. You will also need to know if you are prepared to make any repairs that may need to be made to the house (ex: new roof, new furnace).

2. Act Fast

“Even though there are fewer investors, the inventory of homes for sale is also low and competition for housing continues to heat up in many parts of the country.”

According to the latest Existing Home Sales Report, the inventory of homes for sale is currently at a 3.6-month supply; This is well below the 6-month supply that is needed for a ‘normal’ market. Buyer demand has continued to outpace the supply of homes for sale, causing buyers to compete with each other for their dream homes.

Make sure that as soon as you decide that you want to make an offer, you work with your agent to present it as soon as possible.

3. Make a Solid Offer

Freddie Mac offers this advice to help make your offer the strongest it can be:

“Your strongest offer will be comparable with other sales and listings in the neighborhood. A licensed real estate agent active in the neighborhoods you are considering will be instrumental in helping you put in a solid offer based on their experience and other key considerations such as recent sales of similar homes, the condition of the house and what you can afford.”

Consider ways of making your offer stand out! Many buyers write a personal letter to the seller letting them know how much they would love to be the new homeowners. Your agent will be able to help you figure out if there are any other ways your offer could stand out above the rest.

4. Be Prepared to Negotiate

“It’s likely that you’ll get at least one counteroffer from the sellers so be prepared. The two things most likely to be negotiated are the selling price and closing date. Given that, you’ll be glad you did your homework first to understand how much you can afford.

Your agent will also be key in the negotiation process, giving you guidance on the counteroffer and making sure that the agreed-to contract terms are met.”

If your offer is approved, Freddie Mac urges you to “always get an independent home inspection, so you know the true condition of the home.” If the inspection uncovers undisclosed problems or issues, you can discuss any repairs that may need to be made, with the seller, or cancel the contract.

Bottom Line 

Whether buying your first home or your fifth, having a local professional on your side who is an expert in their market is your best bet to make sure the process goes smoothly. Give me a call and we’ll make it happen – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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6710 E Rockaway Hills Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,800,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,262 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770674

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Custom Home on Over 5 Acres-Experience the beauty of desert living in this stunning custom home, perfectly situated on over 5 acres with panoramic mountain views. Designed to embrace the scenic landscape, the backyard is your personal desert retreat, featuring a negative edge pool, spa, and ample space for outdoor relaxation and dining under the stars. Step inside to a grand entry that leads to a functional kitchen and breakfast living room, complete with a stacked stone fireplace. The primary bedroom and bath serve as a true owner's retreat, boasting a spa-like atmosphere with a soaking tub and a spacious walk-in closet. Enjoy spectacular views from the formal dining room, enhanced by a two-sided fireplace shared with the living room. An upstairs studio offers amazing views, making it an ideal space for creativity or guests. This unique property combines tranquility and beauty, providing the perfect escape. For car enthusiasts, the oversized 4-car garage is a mechanic's dream, while the property also includes a large covered stall with a shed/tack room, perfect for equestrian needs and ready for expansion. Don't miss your chance to make it yours!

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39839 N Spur Cross Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,800,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,785 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771434

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy privacy and expansive views in every direction from this beautiful 6.23-acre equestrian property. Located just minutes from Cave Creek, a quaint little western town that bustles with restaurants, shops and numerous amenities. This property is close to Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area with a riparian area and Elephant Butte which offer trails for hiking, biking, trail-riding and exploring. A lovely courtyard sets the stage for this 2,785 sq ft, single story home that has been thoughtfully updated and impeccably maintained. This house enjoys lots of natural light throughout and lives large with allocated spaces for everyone. There is a designated living room and dining room, 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 fully remodeled bathrooms. The updated kitchen anchors the home

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12238 E Poinsettia Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,800,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,311 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776329

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The moment you enter this elegant Mediterranean Estate, you will notice the warm inviting aesthetic, blending indoor and outdoor living with rich historical character. The incredible attention to every detail with custom painted murals on the interior is truly magnificent. The onyx sinks and stunning roman soaking tub in the primary bathroom coupled with the craftsmanship of the custom cabinets is one of a kind. The kitchen is a chefs dream with top of the line stainless appliances including a double oven and plenty of cabinet space with pull out drawers. The bar area has built in wine racks, beverage fridge and a rose gold sink. All 5 bedrooms are large enough to have king beds, with access to their designated bathrooms for ultimate luxury and privacy for all of your guests. The large covered patio space and lush outdoor landscape provides a serene retreat for your most discerning buyer. Have your friends over to barbecue and a swim in the pool and spa, and enjoy your evenings by the outdoor fireplace. Check out the features list for updates including a newer roof, whole house water softener, 2011 AC units, epoxy garage floor with cabinets and a work bench!

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600 N Redbud Circle Payson, AZ 85541

$1,800,000

4 Beds

5 Baths

3,390 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778570

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing single level beauty in the prestigious community of Chaparral Pines awaits you. This 4 bedroom, 5 bath, oversized 3 car garage sits on 1+ acre at the end of a cul de sac and has all the bells and whistles one would expect in a high quality home built by WTM Construction. Wonderful driveway to the home and large back patio and walk walkways are all done in pavers and the landscaping is meticulous. Upon entering the home through the French doors is an charming foyer leading into an open floor plan of great room with ceiling to floor stone gas fireplace and fantastic kitchen with a large breakfast bar, walk in pantry, Wolfe gas cooktop, gorgeous granite and so much more. Floor plan is split and all bedrooms have their own private baths with walk in closets. Great room, master bedroom, separate dining area, and office all have beamed ceilings. Flooring is engineered hard wood throughout with tile in all the wet areas. Patios all have T&G porch lids and wrought iron railings. Oversized garage has epoxy flooring and built in cabinets. This stunning home is energy efficient and has ceiling fans throughout, a propane tankless water heater, and a soft water system. The back yard is very treed and offers privacy and tranquility. Storage and cabinets galore. This home is a must see! Too many upgrades to mention.

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10721 N Skyline Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

New

$1,800,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,527 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782892

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning residence offers a seamless layout with two spacious great rooms, and expansive picture windows framing views of Red Rock, Four Peaks, and the beautiful Fountain Hills landscape. The gourmet kitchen opens to a large covered terrace, perfect for entertaining and enjoying the scenery. The main floor includes a serene primary suite and a welcoming living area, while the walk-out basement is an entertainer's dream—complete with a resort-style heated pool and spa! Conveniently located near the Scottsdale border, you'll enjoy easy access to shopping and dining while relishing the tranquility of Fountain Hills. Don't miss this unique blend of elegance and views!

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6338 E Amber Sun Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,800,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,033 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760678

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This rare expanded Nimbus model in Terravita on a 15k sf lot, is upgraded and wrought with contemporary SW style! Soaring ceilings and backyard views greet you upon entering from a private courtyard with casita access. In the kitchen: convection oven/microwave, warming drawer, built-in refrigerator & island gas cooktop. Wet bar, formal dining/living and screened/covered patio atop travertine pavers, surrounded by desert plantings worthy of botanical gardens, all make for great entertaining. Black Mtn views from the hot tub, outdoor fireplace, and heated lap pool with deck jets. Backyard access from the primary suite, with dual closets, copper soaking tub and designer touches. Expanded casita makes 2nd office, fourth bedroom, or gym space possible. Welcome to N Scottsdale gated perfection!

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17117 W Dale Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$1,800,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,659 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6648276

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Country living in the city. Beautifully maintained home on 2.73 acres. Additional parcels included in this sale total 7.3 acres. Open floor plan, extra large 3 car garage. Entertain from beautiful bar onto back patio with an observation deck for outstanding views. 9 horse mare motel, large stuccoed conex building work shop and tack room. Complete 300x160 approx arena is negotiable in sale. RV hook ups

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8023 E Cholla Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,800,000

6 Beds

4 Baths

4,066 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6673338

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Two birds with one stone is possible...as this is two homes on over an acre. What an incredibly rare opportunity in Scottsdale. With two homes on an acre this provides maybe a few generations together OR multiple income streams at one address. The main house is over 2300 sq ft and the manufactured house is over 1500 sq ft and just underwent a dramatic remodel. The remodel included new flooring, completely new kitchen and baths as well as paint and more. These places book end a huge backyard and sparkling diving pool. Both places have ample parking with a 2 car garage, 2 car carport and a circle drive. No HOA restrictions here but you do live right across from Starfire Golf Course (So you have that going for you, which is nice!) And you have an abundance of options with the entire acre.

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6801 E Presidio Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,800,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,170 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6776934

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Remodeled,1/2 Acre+ corner lot property w/Detached Guest House! The main home features 10' ceilings in the primary living area, Wood flooring throughout, 3 spacious bedrooms - especially the master/bath/closet - plus an office. Kitchen features quartz countertops, SS appliances, breakfast bar, Coffee station & plenty of storage space. The 1BR/1Bath casita has separate private parking, power gate access w/ covered patios. Other additions include Extra large/wide 2 car garage w/cabinets, large carport fitting 4 or more cars, Smart fireplace, & OWNED SOLAR! Backyard features a resort style pool & ramada with built in misters & Lush greenery. Located in the magic zip code 85254, close to many A+ Schools, shops and restaurants. Don't miss out on this one of a kind property!

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31010 N 117th Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

Open House

$1,800,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,836 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759894

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy resort living on the golf course in the prestigious gated community of Blackstone Country Club. This spotless 4 BDRM 3.5 BATH exceptional contemporary style home is ready to be your new home. W/ 3836 sq ft, a soaring 17' ceiling in main living space & packed w/ top of the line extras ranging from air conditioned 4 car split garages to a 500 bottle wine celler, to a $50,000 Control 4 system. W/ endless designer features this is a one of a kind luxury home. The gourmet kitchen includes Wolf/Subzero appliances, quartz countertops, huge island & an abundance of cabinets. Light & bright w/ tile t/o. Low maintenace yards, gas fireplace in courtyard, extended patio & tons of travertine plus a relaxing golf course view to enjoy the beautiful AZ sunsets. SEE DOC TAB FOR LIST OF UPGRADES.

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9674 E Vantage Point Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

Open House

$1,800,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,291 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778823

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spectacular elevated lot with breathtaking mountain views and total privacy! Step into your own private oasis through a charming paver courtyard with a fountain and exquisite, custom iron doors. The well-appointed kitchen features granite countertops, a spacious center island, a 6-burner gas cooktop, double oven, microwave and built-in refrigerator. Enjoy the spa-like feel of the fabulous owner's suite with a jacuzzi tub, large walk-in shower and his/her closets. The open concept plan with soaring ceilings and expansive windows creates a seamless connection to the magnificent resort like backyard and surrounding desert landscape. This recently updated, luxury home is the perfect blend of contemporary elegance and a sophisticated southwest charm.

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12001 N Miller Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,799,999

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,566 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747530

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fantastic Opportunity in Sundown Gardens! This is truly the Swiss Army Knife of properties. Ready out of the box for a family, Add on to your liking or Build your dream compound! This acre sized lot has a 4 bed 2 bath updated block home with durable saltillo tile throughout. The interior was updated in 2017 with new interior doors, new Milgard aluminum windows and an eat in kitchen. There's a wood burning fireplace in the familyroom and the 5th bonus room can double as a bedroom, office or play room. Large covered front & back patios, roof was done in 2023 plus a new 200 AMP, solar ready electric panel! The back half of the property has a super cool playhouse w/AC and TV and a cozy studio/casita with AC, TV and a Kitchen as (Featured in Scottsdale Lifestyle Mag) Plus (2) Full RV hook-ups! What the sellers love about the property, in their own words; What I love about this sturdy block home... I love the beautiful palm trees around the beautiful blue pool. I love all the birds and bunnies that are always around. I love the cozy she shed. I love the brown Saltillo tile that is all throughout the house. I love the beautiful tiled shower walls in the bathrooms. I love the bonus room, it can be used for so many things. I love the size of the property, it feels much bigger then an acre. I love that the property is located near so many great restaurants, shopping and attractions like Trader Joe's, Natural Grocers, WM Phoenix Open, Barrett Jackson and the Polo Championships at West World!

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