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.

What’s Your Home Worth?

Search for Your New Home

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Multifamily

Commercial

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Location Search Nearby

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

View As: Thumbnails List

Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

1075 E Ranch Road Payson, AZ 85541

$1,395,000

9 Beds

8 Baths

3,690 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746854

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your next investment with Mountain Meadows Cabins! Just minutes from Christopher Creek, this nearly 2.7 acre property in Gordon Canyon offers a beautifully remodeled home and six cozy rental cabins. Each cabin features a fireplace, kitchenette, and air conditioning, with three boasting indoor spas/hot tubs and two private outdoor spas/hot tubs. A perfect retreat that doubles as an income-generating property! Property comes with main home (3/2 b/b, 1792 sq ft) and 6 cabins (sq ft as follows: 424, 3 cabins at 320, and 2 cabins at 256). Property can be split into 2 parcels later if Buyer holds ability to later split into 2 parcels with the county if desired.

View Property

8927 E Wethersfield Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,395,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

3,116 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6750382

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One of the best values in Cactus Corridor!! Charming 3 bedroom/3 bathroom home including separate entry guest casita located in a private gated community of 35 homes. Features include walk-in closets for each bedroom, custom cabinetry, granite counter tops, tile flooring throughout the great room/kitchen, open floor plan and spacious rear yard for entertaining. A gorgeous resort like pool with covered spa area make this hard-to-find home in a sought after Scottsdale location a one of a kind. Come see for yourself and make it yours today!

View Property

18676 N 95th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,395,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,627 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6773200

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The best value for a fully remodeled home in all of prime North Scottsdale 85255, priced under $1.5M! This is the home you've been dreaming of, where modern luxury and timeless design meet to create an unparalleled living experience. Step inside and be immediately captivated by the elegance of high-end finishes, from the sleek wide-format porcelain tile floors to the stunning light fixtures that cast a warm, inviting glow throughout. The expansive 20-foot bifold patio doors blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living, revealing a resort-style backyard that feels like your own private retreat. Set on a premium lot that backs up to a peaceful wash, the privacy and serenity are unmatched, offering you a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle. The vaulted ceilings and open-concept design create an expansive, airy atmosphere that invites you to entertain with ease. Imagine the heart of your home gourmet kitchen with luxurious quartz countertops, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, a massive walk-in pantry, and cabinetry that seems to go on forever. This is where holiday dinners, weekend brunches, and everyday moments turn into lasting memories with friends and family. The split floor plan offers the ultimate in privacy. Your primary suite is a haven of tranquility, with natural light flooding in from a private exit to the backyard. Wake up to the peace of your surroundings, and retreat to your en-suite bath, where double vanities and a walk-in shower await your daily spa-like ritual. A custom walk-in closet ensures everything has its place, making organization effortless. With three additional spacious bedrooms, a beautifully updated second bathroom, and ample room for family, guests, or even a home office, this home delivers everything you could want. Adding to the appeal, the garage features epoxy floors, combining durability with a sleek, modern look perfect for keeping your vehicles and storage in pristine condition. Perched in one of North Scottsdale's most sought-after neighborhoods, this home is surrounded by the finest dining, shopping, spas, and golf courses the area has to offer. With easy access to the 101 freeway and views of the stunning McDowell Mountains, the lifestyle here is simply unrivaled. This isn't just a house, it's the ultimate North Scottsdale dream home, where every detail is designed to elevate your life. Come experience it for yourself and claim the lifestyle you've always wanted. Schedule your showing today!

View Property

4205 E Edgemont Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85008

Open House

$1,395,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,815 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786927

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully remodeled home in lower Arcadia! This rare basement home with high ceilings has an unbelievable floor plan that accommodates many living situations...be it the need for a couple home offices, multi-gen living, kids/teenagers, etc... This is truly a flexible floor plan! This stunning home boasts over 3800 sq ft with 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. As a bonus, none of the bedrooms have shared walls for added privacy. Basement includes a fabulous bonus room complete with a wet bar/kitchenette. Move in ready...don't miss out!

View Property

12271 N 74th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Open House

$1,395,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,250 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786017

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the prestigious Buenavante neighborhood, surrounded by multi-million-dollar estates, this modern home has been spectacularly remodeled inside and out. The exterior showcases top-of-the-line EIFS stucco, a new garage door, upgraded front door, and stylish lighting fixtures. Inside, the sleek kitchen features stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and a double waterfall island. Luxurious bathrooms offer spa-like finishes, including a serene courtyard view from the primary ensuite. Major updates include new flooring, cabinetry, lighting, windows, doors, and essentials like a newer roof, A/C, and water heater. The lush backyard boasts a sparkling pool, gazebo, patio, and mature landscaping. Steps from Cactus Park and close to premier shopping and dining, this is a rare opportunity in one of Scottsdale's most exclusive neighborhoods.

View Property

10569 N 131st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,390,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,446 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751143

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled in a highly sought-after Scottsdale. Located just off 131st and Shea Blvd, this spacious residence offers comfort and convenience. The living room features a cozy fireplace, perfect for relaxing evenings. The home sits on a beautifully landscaped lot, with a secure block wall providing privacy and tranquility. For those who love outdoor activities or need extra storage, the property boasts a detached RV garage, offering plenty of space for your RV, boat, or other toys. The layout offers generously sized bedrooms and bathrooms, ensuring ample room for all. This home's location is a true standout. It is just a short drive from the renowned Mayo Clinic, BASIS School, and the vibrant communities of Fountain Hills and Old Town.

View Property

6415 E Sunnyside Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,390,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,855 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745519

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come see this beautifully unique corner lot listing that possess a highly desired rare & scarcely available 1+acre lot size. Located in the sought after 85254 Scottsdale zip code, the existing 1962 ranch home and lot are being sold ''as-is.'' The current home is still livable, as desired by the new owner, with a new roof, floors, and bathroom updates. Found within the Desert Estates subdivision just north of Paradise Valley, this neighborhood and street contains an array of new custom homes and remodels. This lot is a must see for your new custom built Scottsdale home!

View Property

1960 E Blackhawk Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,390,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,343 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783512

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning single-story estate home in the gated Marathon Ranch community in Gilbert offers a luxurious living experience with no detail overlooked from the time you enter your private courtyard's iron gate. This 4 bed, 4.5 bath, 4 car garage property is one of the largest in the community with elegant premium upgrades throughout and boasts a separate office, bonus flex room, a formal dining room and breakfast nook. The gourmet chef's kitchen and great room features soaring ceilings with double stacked glass front cabinets, Sub Zero built-in fridge, gas cooktop and 90 degree corner slider doors to the resort backyard with sparkling pool by Presidential Pools. Primary suite features dual closets, soaking tub and tiled shower. Homes this special are rare - don't miss the upgrades list!

View Property

2808 W Here To There Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,390,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,050 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784852

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wow, just wow! Extraordinary new built on a one-acre lot in a growing neighborhood with mountain views & NO HOA!!! This impeccable custom abode showcases an exquisite curb appeal with a professionally designed landscape, 2 car garage, and RV garage. Discover a large open floor boasting a sleek design paired with soaring ceilings, recessed lighting, and wood flooring, promoting a modern feel. Abundant natural light floods every corner; the living room features a fireplace & multi-sliding doors that seamlessly connect the indoors & outdoors. The sophisticated kitchen outfitted with a hidden pantry, quartz backsplash & counters, new white & gold appliances, a pot filler faucet over the gas stove, and an oversized island with a breakfast bar, is worth a chef. The butler's pantry has space for a coffee station. The spacious owner's suite hosts 2 walk-in closets and a lavish ensuite with 2 vanities & a huge walk-in shower with tub. The second bedroom has its own bathroom, and bedrooms 3 & 4 share a Jack & Jill bathroom. Mud room, large laundry room, and garage with epoxy floor & custom LED lighting are worth mentioning. The massive backyard is a blank canvas awaiting your creative touch to be transformed into an entertainer's oasis. The covered patio stares directly at the Mnts. promising colorful sunsets. No expenses were spared to make this a unique gem!

View Property

37030 N Tree Lined Trail Carefree, AZ 85377

$1,390,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,924 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6692821

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning views from nearly every window in this 3924 square foot desert estate located on 1.49 acres! Experience luxury and privacy with miles of mountain views, city lights, and sunsets. Split floor plan and quality construction. A generous chef's kitchen features double ovens, wine fridge, island, and breakfast bar. The backyard oasis includes heated pool and spa with a waterfall feature, kiva fireplace, built-in bbq, and unobstructed views. Exquisite setting for relaxing or entertaining. 3 car garage, two way fireplace family room fireplace, and so much more. Experience the beauty of quintessential Arizona living

View Property

30009 N 58th Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,390,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,391 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739883

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your private oasis—an exquisite estate nestled on two sprawling acres of lush, manicured grounds. Elegantly gated and approached by a long driveway, this meticulously maintained residence radiates pride of ownership. The estate boasts an impressive array of features, including ample parking space for all your vehicles and recreational toys. A generous 5-car parking area on a sturdy slab complements the massive 4-car garage with three doors, providing abundant room for your prized collection. The property offers additional potential with ample space for a guest house, detached garage, or even equestrian facilities. Step inside this impeccably appointed home and discover a thoughtfully designed split floor plan that effortlessly combines comfort and style. The chef's kitchen is a culinary dream, equipped with a Sub-Zero refrigerator and a Viking oven, perfect for crafting gourmet meals. Adjacent, the expansive family room invites relaxation with its warm fireplace and abundant natural light, creating an ideal space for gatherings and cozy evenings. The master suite serves as a sanctuary of luxury, featuring a spacious layout and an oversized bathroom that epitomizes indulgence. Enjoy the convenience of separate his and hers water closets, complete with a bidet, ensuring a private and serene retreat. Despite its serene, secluded feel, this remarkable estate offers the ultimate convenience, placing you just minutes away from vibrant shopping and dining options. Experience the perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility in this enchanting home that truly embodies the essence of refined living.

View Property

129 E Foothill Trail Williams, AZ 86046

$1,390,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,239 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753024

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to one of the most exquisite homes Williams has to offer. Nestled in the heart of the Pines and located in the highly desirable subdivision of Mountain Shadows. This custom owner build offers everything you are looking for in a mountain getaway. The sweeping, covered decks usher you in to the front entrance. The home offers vaulted ceilings with touches of tongue and groove. Three oversized bedrooms and a large den that could be converted into a bonus room. The primary bedroom is abundant in space and offers an en-suite bathroom. The primary bath has dual vanity's and a custom walk-in shower. The kitchen is a master piece featuring custom cabinets and custom granite backsplash that is a work of art. Move into the open living room and cozy up by the wood stove on those cold winter nights. The covered back deck overlooks the gorgeous scenery. The property also features an attached two car garage and a separate RV garage! Attached to the RV garage is separate guest quarters! With a partial bathroom and kitchen downstairs and a loft upstairs. The RV garage also features additional covered parking spaces for toys or equipment. The property is situated perfectly towards the end of the subdivision with easy access to the Forest Service. Just minutes from the surrounding lakes, forest and downtown Williams! This is a dream property in one of the most desirable areas of Williams! Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity!

View Property