In a competitive housing market, many buyers are finding the process of buying a home increasingly difficult. Sellers can often hand pick the offer that suits them the best, and it doesn't always come down to the sale price.

Here are three things we consider when helping our clients write the best possible offers:

1. Choose a local lender: Sellers want to feel confident that your financing is solid. Online or unknown lenders could raise a red flag.
   
   
2. Get pre-approved: There's a difference between being pre-qualified and being pre-approved. Most buyers are only pre-qualified.
   
   
3. Home inspection: If you feel confident in the home's quality, an "as is" inspection contingency may be a consideration, depending on the property and whether there are competing offers. The "as is" inspection contingency lets buyers determine the condition of a property without holding the seller accountable to cover the cost of any necessary repairs.

The most important thing to remember is to make your best offer the first time. Don't assume you'll have the opportunity to negotiate. If this is your dream house, put all your cards on the table in your first offer. In the current market, your strategy shouldn't be to hold something back for a counter offer, because you might not get the chance.

We've been helping buyers find their dream homes for more than 30 years. We can help you make the best offer on your next home!