Finding the perfect home can be a thrilling experience, but hopeful buyers must still write and submit an official offer. While your real estate agent can provide valuable insight into the local market, consulting an attorney can help ensure that your offer is legally binding. Below are a few steps for preparing an offer on your next home.

How to Decide a Final Offer on a Home 

1. Settle on a Price

Many real estate professionals recommend thinking of the asking price as a starting point for negotiations. Settling on a fair price means factoring a variety of variables, including the local real estate market, the sellers’ reasons for selling, and your own financial situation. If your offer is too low, the seller may reject it out of hand, while offering too much can mean paying more than necessary.

2. Decide on Your Contingencies

You may need to sell your house before closing, or you might expect the seller to make repairs first. Other common contingencies include home inspections and the ability to obtain financing. As a general rule, the fewer contingencies your offer contains, the more likely sellers will be to accept it.

3. Prepare Your Written Offer

The written offer on a home is a legally binding contract, so ensuring that your document complies with all state and local laws will prevent unexpected problems that could derail the sale. Real estate agents often use document templates which may not be appropriate for your situation. Having an attorney prepare your offer ensures that the document accurately reflects the term of your offer and meets all legal requirements.

If you’re buying a home in Essex County, MA, you can rely on the attorneys at Bernardini Law P.C. to deliver the guidance and legal insight you need. They’ve proudly served buyers and sellers throughout the area since 2011, managing every step of the process, from the initial offer to closing. Visit their website for a closer look at their real estate services and call (978) 794-5525 to make an appointment with an attorney.