Thinking of Making an Offer? 4 Tips for Success

Thinking of Making an Offer? 4 Tips for Success | Simplifying The Market

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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4420 N 29th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

$2,750,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,811 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744731
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This exquisite single-family residence offers over 3,800 square feet of luxurious living space, featuring 4 spacious ensuite bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. Nestled on a nearly 13,000 square foot lot on a cul-de-sac, this home boasts breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak. Step inside to discover high ceilings that create an airy ambiance, complemented by an abundance of natural light throughout. 10 foot tall multi-slide doors, butted glass windows & staircase, imported large format tile, temperature controlled walk-in wine storage & hardwood floors set this masterpiece apart. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with top-of-the-line Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, perfectly suited for culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy hosting family gatherings with the convenience of a secondary kitchen and multiple living areas that provide ample space for relaxation and entertainment. The outdoor oasis features a sparkling pool, ideal for cooling off during those warm Phoenix days or enjoying sunset views with friends and family. The property also includes a 3-car garage and electric vehicle outlets, ensuring your modern lifestyle is accommodated with ease. Don't miss this unique opportunity to own a slice of paradise in one of Phoenix's most sought-after locations. Experience the perfect blend of luxury and comfort!

7914 E Softwind Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,750,000 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Vista Monterey, Scottsdale
Open House
$2,750,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,854 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786609
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A recently updated 5,854 square foot single-story Santa Barbara style estate featuring 5 bedrooms, a den, an attached recreation room with a private entrance, 4 full baths, 2 powder rooms and a 3-car garage in the prestigious gated community of Vista Monterey in North Scottsdale on a 1.039-acre lot. Upon arrival a gorgeous courtyard welcomes you. The spacious floor plan with high ceilings, large windows, covered with plantation shutters, allowing the natural light to brighten the home. The kitchen is an entertainer's delight with oversized island and finely crafted cabinets. This immaculate home offers a split floor plan, with the primary bedroom located on the West side and five large bedrooms, 3 full baths, extra-large playroom, plus a den on the East side of the property. The lavish primary bedroom boasts a sitting area, a full bath with upgraded his and her closets, separate shower and a tub. Every toilet in the house was replaced by the smart Toto toilets. The resort-style backyard complete with a lagoon-like swimming pool with a real rock water fall with a slide, grotto, a spa, fireplace, fire pit alongside the spa, outdoor shower, built-in BBQ and an expansive grass area. There are natural space buffers around the home providing remarkable privacy. The location provides quick access to shopping, restaurants, several parks, premier hiking trails, golfing and the 101 freeway.

855 Distant Drums Road Sedona, AZ 86336

$2,749,500
3 Beds
4 Baths
3,275 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768405
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Live in TRANQUILITY w/ THE Absolute BEST VIEWS, BEST POOL, BEST SUNSETS in Sedona. Sellers live in main home & rent out the attached studio & detached casita for past 6 yrs ! This magical 2.4 acre site sides to National Forest w/ INFINITY POOL & 360 views. Full REMODEL 2012 of Main Home which features Great Room Living w/ true AZ Stone fireplace, Gourmet Kitchen w/ Massive Stainless Commercial Fridge/ New Induction Range. Main house which includes the studio boasts 2 Primary Suites & 2 bonus rooms/ 2.5 bth + in ground spa + additional hot tub. Detached Casita TO DIE FOR! Offering Gr8 Rm w/14' ft ceilings & glass window walls + Murphy Bed, 1 bdrm, 2 bths, kitchen, wrap around VIEW DECK, & Hot tub. Multiple open and covered patios & decks to breathe in RED ROCK VIEWS & stargaze at night! End of road isolation that is 5 minutes to Dining, Shopping, Medical in West Sedona.

36600 N 50th Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$2,749,000
8 Beds
7.5 Baths
7,605 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783477
Property Type Single Family Residence
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Stunning Cave Creek Estate on 5.2 Acres with Desert Views! Located in the heart of Cave Creek, this exceptional estate offers 5.2 flat acres of serene desert landscape, backing up to 300 acres of protected desert preserve. With no HOA, this property provides ultimate privacy and flexibility, ideal for a peaceful retreat or short-term rental opportunities. With over 7,600 sq. ft. of living space, the main home spans 4,728 sq. ft. and features 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. A gourmet kitchen designed for entertaining includes double islands, granite and marble countertops, and custom alder cabinetry. Rich flagstone and hand-honed wood floors, 4 fireplaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows create a warm, inviting atmosphere throughout the home. The spacious 2,040 sq. ft. guest house offers 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, perfect for extended family or guests. Both homes are set against breathtaking mountain views and lush desert landscaping, offering unparalleled privacy and tranquility. Outdoor amenities include a sparkling heated saltwater pool and spa, a sports court ideal for pickleball or basketball, and ample space to add equestrian facilities. The property also includes a bonus 832 sq. ft. game room/gym adjacent to the pool, providing endless entertainment potential. Additional upgrades include a new roof on the main house, guest house, and garages, owned solar panels, new carpet throughout, updated pool equipment, and fully serviced HVAC systems. The property also features new irrigation, water softeners, a tankless water heater, and a 2,500-gallon septic tank which was serviced in November 2024. Just minutes from downtown Cave Creek's shops and restaurants, this peaceful estate offers both luxury and convenience, making it the perfect blend of modern comfort and desert charm!

210 E Georgia Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85012

$2,745,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,738 SqFt
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MLS # 6723103
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover unparalleled luxury in North Central's newest custom gated enclave, The Georgia Three. This exquisite residence, crafted by Bolte Custom Homes, boasts meticulous attention to detail with every fit and finish hand-selected by Katie Bowe Design. Nestled on a gated, pavered street, The Georgia Three features three homes. This particular home exudes single-level charm while incorporating a versatile basement, enhancing the floor plan and adding valuable square footage. Abundant natural light fills the basement through an expansive walk-out, creating a bright and inviting space.The kitchen and main living areas are designed for effortless entertaining and family gatherings, complemented by two additional living spaces offering superb flexibility. The home is bathed in natural light.

28135 N 96th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,740,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,761 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6699788
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ready to take your home life up a notch? Impeccable highly rated Salcito built home located on the #1 green. Stained glass doors open into the great room w/ fireplace, sunken wet bar & massive windows that capture unobstructed Pinnacle Peak views. Expansive owners suite w/fireplace,walk out doors, separate private office, full custom bath & generous sized walk in closet.Custom kitchen w/granite counters & S.S. appliances. Marvel at the 2 bed,2 bath guest wing w/ its own living area & stunning views.Relax around your private heated pool & spa, with 3 water features that make even the most luxurious resorts jealous! This custom 1.49 acre-4761 s.f. estate is fully stocked with all of life's little luxuries for you & yours to enjoy!An exclusive guard gated community with privacy.Seller Carry?

28119 N 109th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,729,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,290 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6655117
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Serene is brand new gated enclave of 21 cutting edge single level contemporary homes designed by Swayback Architects & Planners and built by Sonora West Development. Each Serene home brings a new definition to the ''Lock and Leave'' lifestyle with open Great Room floor plans perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. There are four different models to choose from with lavish interior finishes created by renown interior designers Est Est. This Model B is available with 3 Car Tandem at 3,290/sf (Also available at 3,500/sf with 2 car garage.) Either configurations available only on lots 1, 3, 5, 8 & 19. Base price shown does not include lot premiums nor upgrades but does include 25K pool and a 25k landscape allowance, Subzero & Wolf Appliances & BBQ. Mountain in North Scottsdale, Serene is close to shopping, restaurants and over two dozen private and public golf courses. Don't miss your opportunity to take part in the Serene lifestyle.

25210 N 90th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,725,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,963 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783651
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare offering in sought after Desert Skyline Estates, a gated enclave of 44 custom home lots in North Scottsdale. Owner Financing available! This custom residence is set on a 1.5 acre lot that would support a separate guest house.The possibilities are endless. As you enter the home you will be welcomed by the soaring vaulted ceilings featuring tongue and groove pine that open to the great room and out to the back where your pool awaits for enjoying the amazing Arizona sunsets. Features include 18-inch diagonal travertine throughout including hand laid borders, new GE Profile kitchen appliances, new roof and Rhino Shield stucco coating. All windows and doors are top quality Anderson. The fourth bedroom includes, wood floors a custom built in desk and cabinets. Relax in the nearly 700 square foot game room off the kitchen area for relaxing or entertaining. The oversized nearly 1,100 square foot garage includes custom cabinets including a large counter with storage drawers. 220 is also available in the garage. The private backyard has a custom-built pool, large, covered patio and view deck to enjoy both sunrises over the nearby mountains and sunsets. All furnishing are available to buyer. You are minutes to popular hiking trails that include Pinnacle Peak park, Browns Ranch Trailhead and Toms Thumb trailhead. Golf and fine dining are also minutes away!

5641 N Echo Canyon Circle Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,725,000
3 Beds
4 Baths
3,818 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6641691
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A true gem situated under the iconic Praying Monk! Resort style living in the privately guard gated community of Echo Canyon. This is a very rare and special find! A charming home with a warm open floor plan/ high ceilings and picture windows to take advantage of stunning Camelback Mountain views. There are two bedrooms and a den/bedroom on the main floor. An additional guest suite upstairs which includes its own kitchenette, 3/4 bath and veranda with spectacular views of city lights to the northwest. Centrally located with walking distance to echo canyon trailhead, urban activities like the Village, the new Global Ambassador hotel and a stone's throw to Old Town Scottsdale, PV and Arcadia! Enjoy the amenities of Echo Canyon living with a community clubhouse, pool and tennis!

10751 E Candlewood Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,700,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,440 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6692218
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the Windy Walk Estates of Troon Village, with Troon Mountain as its backdrop, extensive mountain and city views as well as a private backyard oasis, this expansive custom home is a must see in order to truly appreciate all it has to offer. The large and recently updated primary suite and balcony afford panoramic views while the extra large covered patio and outdoor fire pit create the perfect opportunity to enjoy private outdoor living at its finest. Step into the inviting ambiance of 4440 sq ft of soaring ceilings, authentic French Oak hardwood flooring, two way fireplace, 1000 bottle wine room, two pantries. Updated kitchen with sleek lines, SS appliances/Viking range, large island, breakfast bar and eat in kitchen overlooking the backyard's sparkling heated pool and spa.

1020 E Caroline Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$2,700,000
6 Beds
7 Baths
10,613 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6707527
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Elegant, high craftsmanship estate home with over 10k s/f, 6 bed +office, 6 bath, 3 car garage, new carpet on a 1.382 acre irrigated cul-de-sac lot. Air conditioned Carriage House with 6+ car garage, workshop, gun/storage room, half bath, & large hayloft next to horse pasture. Main home features a gourmet kitchen with 2 dishwashers, double ovens, & newer appliances. Gorgeous custom wood paneling in the office & throughout. Extensive storage incl laundry room with 2 washers & dryers, mud room & very large pantry in the huge basement. Two bright secret rooms add to the charm! Diving pool with newer commercial grade filtration system & poolside half bath. Peach, lemon, grapefruit trees. Large court for sports or riding bikes. 4 of the 5 A/C units are less than 1 yr old.

35140 N 52nd Place Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$2,700,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,731 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740350
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
LOCATION! PRIVACY! MOUNTAIN VIEWS! HORSE PROPERTY W RESORT STYLE LIVING! Amazing custom home in one of the best kept secret CC locations. 2.13 fenced acres offers 4733 sf home w attached Casita w/kitchenette, walk through gated court yard,water feature & fireplace. Open the front door to overlook negative edge heated pool/spa & 360 mountain views, huge covered outdoor living area, built-in BBQ, total of 5 bedrooms/4.5bath, office,gourmet kitchen w granite island,ss appliances, w desk,warming drawer,office ,custom cherry cabinets, Big game-room w wet bar/ billiards rm view of pool. 3 stall-barn w turnouts,tack room/feed arena, pipe fencing & miles of trails out your back door, RV full hook up, trailer parking, large 4 car garage, close to all stores/restaurants but feels remote & secluded Features include: Butlers pantry off the kitchen with huge pantry, warming drawer and appliance center, special, under mount and art lighting through-out, Huge 1200 sq foot covered patio with heated pool and spa, family/billiards room with wet bar, wine cabinet with entry to the patio, folding glass folding into the wall patio glass doors from great room to patio to increase the livable space, cozy office off the primary bedroom, attached guest house has been used for Air B&B and is a premier listing on that sight! Guest house offers bedroom kitchenette, and full laundry facilities, full bath and cozy sitting area with access to the fenced front court yard with a fireplace and water feature. Horse facilities offers 3 stalls with runs, trailer parking with full RV hook up, tack/feed room, turn outs and trails for miles of riding right from you home. Fenced dog run, Huge 4 car garage with pull through and large doors- plenty of room for a tractor, & set up for an Air compressor, and lots of storage. surround sound speakers, View out of all windows of the mountains- quiet neighborhood, with paved streets and city water. Minutes to stores, Home Depot/Lowe's, restaurants, and the fun town of Cave Creek.

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