Compare offers on net proceeds and certainty, not headline price. Put every offer in one table with the price, the loan type, the appraisal gap coverage, the inspection terms and the closing date, then ask which one is most likely to close on the terms written.
Start with what you actually keep
A higher price can still leave you with less money once seller concessions, a rent-back credit or a longer timeline are counted. We translate each offer into an estimated net figure before we discuss anything else, so the comparison starts on the number that pays off your loan.
That figure is an estimate. Your title company prepares the official settlement statement, but a good early estimate stops the conversation from fixating on the wrong line.
- Line up every offer in one table, same rows for each.
- Estimate net proceeds after concessions and credits.
- Score each contingency by deadline and likelihood.
- Call the lender on the top two offers.
- Counter on the terms that matter most to you.
Have a question about your own situation? Book a short call with an agent or ring (555) 318-4720.
Read the contingencies like a risk list
Every contingency is a door the buyer can walk through. An inspection objection deadline of ten days is a longer open door than five. A loan contingency with a low down payment is a wider door than a cash offer. None of these are bad, but each one has a cost that belongs in the comparison.
The best offer is the one that still looks good on closing day.
At a glance
| Offer | Price | Loan | Appraisal gap | Close |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | $742,000 | Conventional, 10% down | None | 45 days |
| B | $735,000 | Conventional, 25% down | Up to $15,000 | 30 days |
| C | $728,000 | Cash | Not needed | 21 days |
Illustrative offers for a sample listing. Your numbers will differ.
