Helena Talbot’s blog – How To Submit A Winning Offer

When buying a new home, you want to make sure you're getting the best deal you possibly can.  One way to do that is by submitting an offer that the seller just can't refuse.  Here are a few tips that will help you submit a winning offer.

1.  You want to have all your ducks in a row before you begin your search.  The very first thing you'll need to do is to get a pre-approval from your bank or chosen mortgage company.  This lets the seller know you are serious and that you're financially able to buy their home.  A pre-approval will most definitely give you the edge over another buyer that may not be qualified to buy.

2.  It's extremely important that you know the market area.  That's the only way you'll know if the property is fairly priced and what you should offer.  One thing to be aware of though, is that sometimes a home may intentionally be priced lower than the current market value in order to attract multiple offers.  In this case, you may want to bid over the asking price if you're really interested in the property.  

3.  Putting down a large earnest money deposit with a reputable escrow company will make a huge impact on the seller's decision and will definitely strengthen your offer and your negotiating power.

4.  Find out what's motivating the seller to move.  Does the seller need to move quickly, If so, then include in the contract an end of the month or sooner closing date.  It may also help to eliminate as many contingencies as possible.  The more convenient you make things for the seller, the more likely you are to have your offer accepted.  

5.  Write a personal note to the seller letting them know all the things you love about their house and why you feel you'd be the best person to buy their home.  Most seller's have an emotional attachment to their home and want to sell it to someone who will love it and care for it as much as they do.  

6.  Put a quick response deadline on your offer.  If your offer is strong, you'll want the seller to accept it as soon as possible.   This will help to eliminate another buyer submitting an offer that could potentially compete with yours.  Talk to your realtor about the best timeframe for your offer deadline.

If you would like more information about submitting a winning offer, contact your realtor to request a consultation.  Your realtor would be happy to assist you in any way he can.  

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  

I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.