Buying Tips

Making an Offer Checklist

Information Provided by
Fannie Mae

Step 1: Prepare to make an offer

Revisit the neighborhood at various times of day and night
Talk with prospective neighbors to discuss what it's like to live in the area
Look at the home more critically to discover any overlooked flaws or attributes
Review: Market value of home Home's condition Special circumstances

Step 2: Review pre-qualification

Finalize the exact amount you can pay for a home
Seek advice from your real estate sales professional regarding comparable homes in the neighborhood and ask for any other relevant information.

Step 3: Make an offer

Submit purchase and sale agreement to real estate agent. This document includes:
   Description of property
   Price offered
   Down payment Earnest money
   Financing Contingencies
   Closing date
   Occupancy date
   Length of time offer is valid
   Inspection

Any other requirements based on advice from your real estate sales professional

Submit earnest money to show seller you are serious about your offer. Check with your real estate sales professional regarding a customary amount of your "good-faith" payment. (No set amount is required.)

Step 4: Seller response

Acceptance
Counteroffer
Rejection