How to Choose the Right Offer When Selling Your Home

📈 How to Choose the Right Offer: It’s Not Always the Highest

When you're selling your home in Central Florida, getting multiple offers can feel like hitting the jackpot. But don’t be fooled—the best offer isn’t always the one with the biggest number.

Here’s what to look for when comparing offers so you can make the most informed decision.

📅 1. Consider the Type of Financing

The type of loan a buyer is using can impact how smoothly the sale goes.

• Cash: Fast and flexible with fewer risks of delays

• Conventional Loan: Typically solid and reliable

• FHA/VA Loans: Great for buyers, but may come with stricter appraisal/inspection hurdles

🚡 Pro Tip: A slightly lower cash offer might be a safer bet than a higher financed one with contingencies.

✅ 2. Review Contingencies Carefully

Contingencies give buyers a way out of the contract—so fewer is often better.

• Home sale contingency: Buyer must sell their home first

• Appraisal gap clauses: Helps if the home doesn’t appraise high enough

• Inspection terms: Are they asking for repairs or credits upfront?

🗓️ 3. Pay Attention to the Timeline

• What’s the proposed closing date?

• Does it align with your plans?

• Are they flexible if your next home isn’t ready yet?

A well-timed offer can reduce stress and avoid costly short-term housing.

💼 4. Evaluate the Earnest Money Deposit

Earnest money is the buyer’s good faith deposit.

• More money = more serious buyer

• Low or missing deposits can be a red flag

🚪 5. Look at the Overall Strength of the Buyer

• Are they pre-approved or just pre-qualified?

• Have they included proof of funds?

• Is their agent experienced and communicative?

A strong buyer makes for a smoother closing.

🚀 Final Thought:

The right offer is the one that balances price, terms, timing, and reliability.

At The Peterson Group, we help sellers break down every detail and negotiate the strongest deal—not just the highest number. Call Charlie at (386) 259 -0744