Receiving an offer on your property can be an exciting moment, especially if you have been waiting for serious interest. However, the excitement can sometimes lead to quick decisions that may not be in your best long-term interest. The figure on the page is only part of the story.
Understanding offer over meaning, recognising the signs of a serious buyer, and mastering house price negotiation will help you decide whether the deal in front of you truly works for your circumstances.
Related: What Happens After You Accept An Offer
First offers: why waiting can pay off
Some sellers feel pressured to accept the first offer that comes their way, particularly if they have already found their next home or are keen to move quickly. However, no rule says you must agree to it. Even if the number looks appealing, taking time to review your options could result in a stronger price, a more secure buyer, or both.
In many cases, sellers receive several offers on a house in the first weeks of marketing, especially if the property is priced competitively or in a desirable location. This early activity can be a strong position from which to compare offers and weigh up the pros and cons of each.
The latest OnTheMarket data shows that 39% of sellers expect to secure a buyer within three months, while 27% of buyers aim to find a property in the same period. This indicates that the market has motivated participants on both sides, but it also highlights that patience can work in your favour if it means holding out for the right offer.
Related: Our Guide To Selling Your Property
What makes an offer worth accepting
Price will always be a central consideration, but it is far from the only factor in deciding whether to accept. Start by considering whether there is another offer on your property. Multiple offers give you options and the leverage to choose the one that offers the best balance of price, security, and timing.
Next, compare the offer against average house prices in your area. If it is noticeably lower without a valid reason, such as the property needing renovation or modernisation, it might be considered a cheeky offer on a house. In the UK, this often means a bid around 5–10% under the asking price, though market conditions and location can alter what is reasonable.
Your situation matters too. If you have already found your next home, your sale price needs to match your onward budget. Accepting less could lead to compromises on the property you buy or your financial comfort. And remember to factor in the buyer’s position: a chain-free first-time buyer or cash purchaser can often progress more quickly and reliably than someone whose purchase depends on a long chain of other transactions.
Turning a low offer into the right deal
An offer that falls short of your expectations does not have to be the end of the conversation. With the right approach, a low offer can be negotiated into something more acceptable. Learning how to negotiate house prices effectively gives you a better chance of bridging the gap between what the buyer is willing to pay and what you need to achieve.
This could involve making a counteroffer close to your asking price, adjusting the completion date to suit the buyer, or having your Newton Fallowell agent manage the house price negotiation on your behalf to keep things constructive and professional.
Even after a deal is agreed, changes can occur. For instance, if the buyer’s mortgage lender values the property at less than the agreed price, you may find yourself negotiating the house price after the offer is accepted. In this scenario, you might choose to meet halfway, reduce the price slightly, or hold firm and risk the buyer walking away. Knowing how to renegotiate house prices calmly and with a clear plan will keep you in control.
Related: Why choose us to sell your home
Response times: keeping buyers engaged
While there is no legal deadline for how quickly you must reply to an offer, leaving a buyer waiting too long can make them feel uncertain. A good rule of thumb is to respond within a couple of days, even if your answer is not final.
Providing a quick update through your agent, whether you are accepting, declining, or still considering, shows that you are serious about selling and respectful of the buyer’s time. This helps maintain positive momentum and can prevent the buyer from losing interest or pursuing other properties.
Accepting an offer without risking delays
Once you have decided that the offer works for you, the process of acceptance begins. Knowing how to accept an offer correctly will help keep the sale moving smoothly. Your estate agent will notify the buyer, prepare the memorandum of sale, and liaise with solicitors to move the transaction forward.
If you are accepting an offer on a house, make sure every agreed-upon term is confirmed in writing. This avoids misunderstandings later in the process and gives all parties a clear framework to work from. While price negotiation can still occur after acceptance, it should be approached carefully to avoid unsettling the buyer or creating unnecessary delays.
Related: The Benefits of Using Property Management Services
Choosing the offer that works for you
The right offer is not just about the figure; it is about certainty, timing, and aligning with your long-term plans. Deciding whether to accept, reject, or renegotiate can be a challenge, but your estate agent can guide you every step of the way.
From accurate valuations that reflect the local market to thorough buyer vetting and skilled negotiation, we take care of the details so you can focus on your move with confidence. Newton Fallowell provides personalised advice and professional guidance to help you sell your home with confidence.
