Receiving an offer on your property is an exciting milestone, but knowing when to accept can be a challenge. Should you hold out for a higher bid? Is the first offer always the best one? And how do you navigate buyer negotiations while ensuring a smooth sale?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to consider before saying ‘yes’ to an offer, from evaluating market conditions to identifying serious buyers.
If you’re thinking about selling your home, book a free, no-obligation valuation with CJ Hole today.
What offer should you accept on a house?
The best offer is not always the highest one. When deciding whether to accept, you should consider:
✔ The buyer’s position – Are they in a chain? Do they have a mortgage in place?
✔ Market conditions – Are house prices rising or falling?
✔ Your moving plans – Do you need a quick sale, or can you wait?
✔ Potential negotiations – Can you secure a better price?
Finding the right balance between price, timing, and buyer reliability is key to a successful sale.
Related: Questions to Ask Estate Agents When Selling
Getting the right offers on your house
To attract strong offers, your home needs to stand out. Here’s how to boost your property’s appeal:
- Perfect your listing – High-quality photos and well-written descriptions are essential.
- Stage your home – Declutter, depersonalise, and add finishing touches to create a welcoming feel.
- Make minor improvements – A fresh coat of paint, updated fixtures, and tidy outdoor spaces can add value.
- Be flexible with viewings – The more opportunities buyers have to see your home, the more likely you are to receive offers.
- Work with a trusted estate agent – Expert marketing and negotiation skills can help secure the best deal.
For more tips, check out our guide to preparing your home for sale.
What does OIRO mean?
If you see OIRO (Offers in the Region Of) on a listing, it means the seller is looking for a price close to the figure stated, but there is room for negotiation.
Using OIRO can:
✔ Attract more interest from buyers
✔ Encourage competitive bidding
✔ Provide flexibility in negotiations
However, setting clear boundaries is essential to avoid lowball offers that waste time.
Related: Answers to the Questions You’ll Have When Selling Your House
Should you accept your first offer on your house?
The first offer can often be a strong one, particularly in a competitive market. Buyers who act quickly are usually serious about securing the property.
Before accepting, ask yourself:
✔ Does the offer match market value? Check recent sales in your area.
✔ Is the buyer financially ready? A cash buyer or a mortgage-approved buyer can speed up the process.
✔ Do you have other interested parties? A competitive environment can drive up the final sale price.
If the offer is reasonable and from a reliable buyer, accepting early could save time and prevent delays.
Related: 10 Property Turn-Offs That Might Be Stopping Your Home from Selling
Gazumping and Gazundering – What are they?
Buying and selling property in England and Wales isn’t legally binding until contracts are exchanged. This means buyers and sellers can change their minds before completion, sometimes leading to gazumping or gazundering.
Gazumping
Gazumping occurs when a seller accepts a higher offer from another buyer after already agreeing to a deal. This can leave the original buyer disappointed and out of pocket.
To avoid gazumping:
✔ Request the property is marked as ‘sold subject to contract’
✔ Progress the sale quickly with a solicitor in place
✔ Ask for an exclusivity agreement to secure your position
Gazundering
Gazundering is when a buyer lowers their offer just before contracts are exchanged, often leaving the seller in a tough position.
To reduce the risk of gazundering:
✔ Choose a reliable buyer with a strong track record
✔ Be realistic with pricing to avoid late renegotiations
✔ Ensure your home is in good condition to prevent last-minute issues
Signs it’s time to accept an offer
Sometimes, holding out for a better deal can work against you. Here are key indicators that now might be the right time to say yes:
The price reflects your home’s value
If the offer is in line with recent sales in your area, it’s worth serious consideration. Overpricing can lead to fewer viewings and longer time on the market.
The market indicates a future decline
House prices fluctuate. If experts predict a downturn, it might be wise to secure a deal now rather than risk receiving lower offers later.
For insight into current trends, explore our latest property market updates.
Your house has been on the market for a while
A property that sits on the market too long can become less desirable to buyers. If your home isn’t attracting new interest, accepting an offer might be the best decision.
The timing is looking right
Personal circumstances—such as a job relocation, school deadlines, or mortgage deals—can influence when to accept. If an offer aligns with your timeline, it may be the right move.
The buyer seems right
A buyer who is serious, flexible, and financially prepared is a valuable asset. If they’re ready to proceed without complications, this can make for a smoother transaction.
Do you need help selling your property?
Selling your home is a significant decision, and choosing the right buyer is crucial to a stress-free sale.
At CJ Hole, our experienced estate agents provide expert advice, professional marketing, and strong negotiation skills to help you achieve the best possible price.
