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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22770 Fox Ranch Road Munds Park, AZ 86017

$1,550,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,416 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6662555

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

All reasonable offers considered! Act fast to secure with built in equity since its listed below 3 appraisals! Open to investor offers! Flexible Financing Available Seller willing to carry with sizeable down and Interest rates tailored to fit your needs. Peace & Quiet on 11+ Acres Perfect for Short Term Rental, running a business, hobby farm, or simply embracing tranquility. Price Lowered - Owner Extremely Motivated! Over 300k in Equity immediately! ACT NOW NO HOA, 11.98 Acres Bordering the majestic Coconino National Forest, this property offers a rare opportunity to live in harmony with nature while enjoying Munds Park amenities just a stone's throw away. -Custom Home Features Stainless appliances, wood stove, entertainers bar, spacious bedrooms, large mudroom, and more! Available fully furnished! -Peace of Mind Amenities Equipped with Briggs & Stratton generator, septic system, and shared well for continuous comfort. -Equestrian Paradise Full arena, round pen, cross-fenced areas, shelters, and out-buildings provide everything you need to care for your horses. A haven for both horse and rider! -Four-Season Comfort Mild climate ensures year-round enjoyment of your outdoor pursuits. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own your slice

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9602 E Allison Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,550,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,004 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6695491

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Price Improvement! New roof underlayment & newly resurfaced pool. Welcome to this cul-de-sac home in the gated community of Mirabel Village! Experience this stunning property with a short film (not a photo slideshow - 2nd image click play) showcasing the elegant interior and resort-like grounds. After, further explore this impressive home with a full interior 3D walk-through. Tour this home at your own pace. 1.2 acres featuring a heated pool, spa, fire pit and BBQ pergola. Expansive private courtyard with fireplace and access to attached casita. Iron entry door opens to a foyer and formal living room with fireplace. The main home features 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a total of 3 interior fireplaces, stacked stone accent walls, window shutters, soaring ceilings and built ins throughout.

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37202 Ne Greythorn Circle Carefree, AZ 85377

$1,550,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,088 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6732284

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This nearly new Catalonia model by Toll features a fantastic great room split floor plan w/great Black Mountain views in gated Reserve at Tranquil Trail. 3 ensuite bedrooms, 3.5 baths, an office, & a bonus room plus a 3 car garage all on one level w/a gorgeous pool/spa & gazebo. Upgrades throughout including courtyard entry w/travertine pavers & modern water feature, huge great room w/sliding pocket door, gas fireplace, wood-look tile floors, dark wood cabinets, granite counters, glass tile backsplash, SS appliances, custom lighting, clerestory windows, plantation shutters, & ceiling fans. Large primary bedroom w/lavish bath featuring dual sinks, floating tub, tiled shower surrounds w/dual shower heads, & walk-in closet w/organizers. Great secondary en suite bedrooms and bonus room in

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10914 E Cinder Cone Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,550,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,900 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758237

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxury home in Candlewood Estates at Troon North * Open, 3 bedroom plus office and bonus room, game room, formal dining room and living room with zero interior steps * Private north/south exposure lot with mountain and sunset views * Resort-style outdoor living with a pool, covered dining patio, built-in BBQ and gas fireplace * A 3-car garage completes the residence *

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8170 E Golden Spur Lane Carefree, AZ 85377

$1,550,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,809 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764276

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing Custom Home with detached casita (footage calculated in total). Nestled between gorgeous mountain vistas and natural wash valleys on 2.6 acres of land. Grande porte cochere towers over the private drive entry with gorgeous double wrought iron entry doors. Home opens to a 2-story foyer with gorgeous vistas and natural lighting overlooking pool/spa. Natural stone floors, marble & granite accents and tops, other pillar accents throughout. Newly refinished cabinetry adds a modern touch to an otherwise elegant space. 2-story patio shadows a large exterior entertaining zone flanked by a gorgeous pebble tech pool/spa and detached pool/guest house. This home truly is a desert gem!

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7806 E San Carlos Road Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,550,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,382 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744714

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom residence offers the ultimate in convenience and luxury. Each bedroom boasts its own private ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet, offering ultimate privacy and indulgence. A chef's dream, the kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line Viking appliances and provides a stunning centerpiece for the home. Abundant natural light fills the space through large sliders that open to a serene courtyard. Experience peace of mind within the secure confines of this guard-gated community. Enjoy resort-style living with eight swimming pools, nearby golf courses, and convenient shopping just moments away. This turnkey property offers effortless living without the stress of maintenance.

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2213 W Twain Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,549,999

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,911 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772241

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Twain Dr! Talk about having it all! Take a step into this expansive home that just keeps going! This entertainers paradise features 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and a beautifully updated open living concept that cannot be missed. Featuring two flex rooms right when you walk in the front door, an oversized dining area, wet bar, and open concept kitchen/living area, this home has space for anything you desire! If that wasn't enough, step outside into two different locations. First, enjoy your morning coffee in this beautiful, private courtyard with a fire place, or head on out back and enjoy privacy with no neighbors behind you! This desert oasis of a backyard, with an incredible water feature, built in barbecue, pool, and spa is an entertainers dream! If that wasn't enough, head into the master bedroom, which includes a beautiful outdoor patio space to enjoy the sunset, a large master bathroom, and huge walk in closet, and fully remodeled bathrooms throughout for guest bedrooms! Enjoy family night with popcorn and snacks in your exclusive media room! Last but not least! FULLY OWNED SOLAR to SIGNIFICANTLY reduce bills each month, along with Ring security cameras throughout the house! To top it all off, do not miss all the AMENITIES that Anthem has to offer, including a community pool, biking/walking paths, clubhouse/rec center, workout facility, and tennis courts! Schedule your showing today! Twain Dr is not to be missed!

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14605 S Presario Trail Phoenix, AZ 85048

$1,549,900

4 Beds

5 Baths

3,666 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6754083

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning custom home in the exclusive GATED SUMMERHILL community. This beautiful 4-bedroom, 5-bathroom plus executive office home spans 3,666 square feet livable, and 5688 Under Roof! This Custom home built by Forte Homes offers luxurious living at its best! One of the newest homes built in Summerhill in 2018 includes newer components like roof, A/C units, stucco, paint, insulation, and appliances, all 2018. The property is situated on a 1.35-acre mountainside lot and provides breathtaking mountain views and high-end features. The large great room boasts stained exposed wood beams, 15-foot ceilings, and large windows showcasing stunning mountain views. The gourmet kitchen has top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, including a Sub-zero built-in refrigerator, a Wolf gas range with double ovens, and two dishwashers. The kitchen also features a large island with double sinks, a breakfast bar with sink and chilled RO system, custom alder cabinetry, and a walk-in pantry. Dramatic entry, formal dining room, neutral flooring throughout, custom window treatments, granite counters, solid 8-foot doors, Star dual energy dual pane windows, smart home technology, and a large laundry room are just some of the upscale features. The Elegant primary suite wing features a private exit to the patio, a spa-like bath with double sinks, a huge walk-in closet, a jetted tub, and Incredible views from every window! Adjacent to the Primary is an Executive Office and Powder Room. Three secondary bedroom suites include neutral tile in common areas, carpet in bedrooms, private baths with granite and custom fixtures, and walk-in closets. The 5-car garage is a massive 1325 square feet with air conditioning, insulation, custom 10-foot doors, and built-in cabinetry, providing ample space for vehicles and storage. The backyard is ideal for entertaining and offers stunning mountain views and amazing sunsets. The expansive covered patio with paver flooring is perfect for entertaining, complete with built-in gas heaters, ceiling fans, and a pool bath. Enjoy the natural gas-heated pool and spa, surrounded by a travertine deck and multiple seating areas. It includes a custom heated pool and spa with deck jets and a spillway. The custom natural desert design landscaping, a turf side yard, and a paved driveway enhance the property's curb appeal. This home is a masterpiece, offering luxury, comfort, and breathtaking views. Don't miss the opportunity to make it yours!

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3817 E Hiddenview Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

$1,549,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,083 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761480

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning 4-bed, 2.5-bath modern home offers 3,083 sq. ft. of luxurious living space, fully remodeled to perfection. The gourmet kitchen features a sleek 10ft island, quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances, ideal for culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy an airy, open-concept layout that seamlessly connects living spaces with breathtaking lakefront views from multiple rooms. Step outside to your private oasis with a brand-new PebbleTec pool, perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Every detail of this home blends modern elegance with timeless charm, making it a must-see in the Lakewood Estate community.

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16617 W Monterey Way Goodyear, AZ 85395

$1,549,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,172 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6716863

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream retreat! This stunning property features an innovative design where stackable patio doors seamlessly merge indoor and outdoor living spaces with mountain views and lake overlooking the golf course. Awake in the morning & enjoy views of lake and mountain right from your bedroom! Inside discover an open-concept floor plan that effortlessly flows onto an expansive outdoor patio, perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet moments of relaxation. This Solstice model has over 3000 sf, formal dining room 2 large bedrooms, den and casita with separate den, oversize 3 car garage. PebbleCreek has over 200 clubs, 36 pickleball courts, 3 golf courses to enjoy, 2 restaurants, 330 seat theater and a lot more! This 1/4 acre lot is one of the best properties in PebbleCreek

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3140 E Page Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85234

Open House

$1,549,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,029 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771686

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxurious living at Higley Groves West! This magnificent haven offers a lovely curb appeal w/a stone façade, private courtyard, a 3-car side garage, & a wide RV gate/parking. Meticulously designed interior w/pristine lines promotes a modern feel, boasting inviting foyer, rich wood flooring, plantation shutters, thick baseboards, & stylish light fixtures. Highlights include an large living room, formal dining room, & desirable great room adorned w/pre-wired surround sound. Gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, fully equipped w/abundant white cabinetry accentuated by crown moulding, travertine backsplash, a custom prep island w/a breakfast bar, desk area, built-in appliances, butler's service area, granite counters, & a breakfast nook. As a bonus, this house features a magnificent backyard. Grand owner's retreat will impress you w/direct outdoor access, an ensuite w/two vanities, make-up desk, soaking tub, & a walk-in closet w/mirrored doors. One Jack & Jill bathroom! Stunning backyard is an entertainer's dream, showcasing a covered patio, putting green, storage sheds, fire pit, & an enticing pool & spa. This gem will captivate you!

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34596 N 99th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,545,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,117 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763085

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful residence nestled within the prestigious gated community of Legend Trail. This captivating home offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. As you approach, an inviting iron gate opens to a serene private front courtyard with lush landscape and water feature. As you enter, you'll be greeted by soaring 9+ft ceilings and an abundance of natural light streaming through the windows, offering picturesque views of the backyard oasis. The expansive living features a charming brick fireplace, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxation or gatherings. Large windows offer views of the sparkling pool, enticing you to unwind and enjoy indoor-outdoor living at its finest. Both the front and back of the home include desert landscaping ideal for low maintenance and lock and leave lifestyle. The kitchen, ideal for culinary enthusiasts, is equipped with a breakfast bar accented by a brick knee wall and pendant lighting, granite countertops, ample white cabinetry, a pantry, and a striking blue kitchen island with a gas cooktop. Stainless steel appliances, including a double wall oven, elevate the functionality of this space, which also includes an eat-in area and a wet bar, making it perfect for entertaining. For more formal gatherings, the home offers a separate dining area with French doors leading to the front courtyard, enhancing the indoor-outdoor flow. Retreat to the luxurious primary bedroom offering expansive windows framing views of the backyard, a dual sink vanity, a separate tub and shower, and a generously sized closet. Additional highlights include a laundry room with more cabinet space for storage and a sink, as well as a split 3-car garage for added convenience. The private backyard area includes a built-in BBQ, fireplace and seating, perfect for outdoor entertaining. Enjoy the covered patio, offering a cool retreat on hot summer days, complete with a ceiling fan and electric awnings. Experience the sought-after amenities of Legend Trail, including golf, a clubhouse, fitness room, pool and spa, pickleball and tennis courts making this home an ideal choice for those seeking the ultimate desert lifestyle!

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