Making an Offer

You found a home you love. Now it’s time to write an offer that’s strong enough to win and still protects you. Here’s how we approach it.

Have your pre-approval ready

A pre-approval letter from your lender is one of the best things you can send with an offer. It shows the seller you can actually buy the home. If you haven’t done it yet, start here.

What goes into the purchase agreement

In Minnesota, your offer is written on a purchase agreement. Besides the price, it covers your earnest money, how you’re paying, which contingencies you want (like inspection or financing), the closing date, and what stays with the home. We’ll pull recent sales nearby so you can pick a price with confidence, and we’ll talk through how each term affects your chances and your protection.

Read the seller’s disclosures

Minnesota sellers have to tell buyers about known material facts that could significantly affect the home’s use or enjoyment. You’ll also get a radon disclosure, plus well, septic and lead-based paint disclosures when they apply. Read them before you write your offer, not after.

Good questions to ask (through your agent)

Disclosures don’t always tell the whole story. These questions can fill in the gaps:

1. Why are they selling? A job move, needing more space or downsizing tells you something about timing and how flexible the seller might be.
2. How long has it been on the market? A home that’s been sitting may have more room to negotiate. A brand-new listing may draw several offers.
3. What updates have been done, and when? Roof, furnace, water heater, windows. Ask for receipts or permits when they’re available.
4. Any past problems? Water in the basement, ice dams, a past roof leak. Even when something was fixed, it’s worth looking at how well.
5. What’s the neighborhood like? Traffic, noise, planned road work or construction nearby. Drive by at night and on a weekend too.
6. What are the costs to own it? Property taxes, association dues if there’s an HOA, and typical utility bills.

The more you know, the better your offer. We’ll help you get answers, sort out what matters, and negotiate for you. Let’s talk.