We have an offer, NOW WHAT?

We have an offer, NOW WHAT?

January 23, 20262 min read

📝 We Have an Offer… NOW WHAT?

Getting an offer on your home is exciting—but it can also bring a wave of questions.
What does it really mean? Should you accept it? Counter it? Wait for more?

If you’re thinking, “We have an offer… now what?”, you’re not alone. Let’s walk through what happens next and how to make the smartest move.


📬 Step One: Review the Entire Offer (Not Just the Price)

The offer price matters—but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. A strong offer includes:

  • Purchase price

  • Financing type (cash vs. loan)

  • Earnest money deposit

  • Contingencies (inspection, appraisal, financing)

  • Closing timeline

  • Special terms (rent-back, seller concessions, etc.)

The goal is to evaluate the strength, speed, and certainty of the offer—not just the number.


🔍 Step Two: Compare Your Options

Once an offer is in hand, you typically have three choices:

  1. Accept the offer as written

  2. Counter to improve terms or price

  3. Wait (especially if showings are still strong)

Your decision should align with your goals, timeline, and market conditions.


💰 Step Three: Understand Risk vs. Reward

Sometimes the highest offer isn’t the best offer. A slightly lower offer with:

  • Strong financing

  • Fewer contingencies

  • Faster closing

can net you more money and less stress in the long run.

This is where experience matters.


🤝 Step Four: Negotiate Strategically

Negotiation is about more than back-and-forth—it’s about positioning. A skilled agent will:

  • Communicate with the buyer’s agent

  • Protect your leverage

  • Anticipate issues before they arise

  • Keep the deal moving forward


👩‍💼 Why Guidance Is Critical at This Stage

Once you’re under contract, timelines matter. Inspections, appraisals, and financing all come into play quickly. Having the right agent ensures:

  • Deadlines are met

  • Issues are handled calmly and professionally

  • You stay in control of the process


Watch this to help you get started:


🔑 Final Thoughts

Receiving an offer is a big milestone—but what you do next can impact your final outcome. With the right strategy and guidance, you can move forward confidently and protect your bottom line.

I’m Hope George—your best HOPE in Real Estate. My team and I are here to guide you from offer to closing, every step of the way.

📲 804.212.1510
💻 HopeGeorgeRealEstate.com
📧 [email protected]

Top 1% of Agents in Central Virginia

Team Leader, Hope George Real Estate
804.212.1510
Licensed in VA #225227454

CNE® Certified Negotiation Expert

ABR®, SRES®, CFSP®

EdD, MA The George Washington University

BA The College of William and Mary
Real Broker, LLC | 855.450.0442

Dr. Hope George

Top 1% of Agents in Central Virginia Team Leader, Hope George Real Estate 804.212.1510 Licensed in VA #225227454 CNE® Certified Negotiation Expert ABR®, SRES®, CFSP® EdD, MA The George Washington University BA The College of William and Mary Real Broker, LLC | 855.450.0442

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