Receiving multiple offers on your home? Learn how to evaluate, compare, and choose the best offer with this step-by-step guide for sellers navigating a competitive market.

Selling your home is exciting, especially when it attracts multiple offers. While it’s a great position to be in, managing several bids can feel overwhelming. How do you choose the right one? Should you accept the highest price or consider other factors? Here’s how to handle multiple offers with confidence and strategy.


1. Work With a Trusted Real Estate Agent

Your first step should be to lean on a professional. An experienced real estate agent can help you interpret the details of each offer, communicate with potential buyers, and strategize your next move. They’ll also ensure you remain compliant with local laws and avoid any pitfalls in the negotiation process.

2. Set a Deadline for Offers

To create a sense of urgency and ensure a fair comparison, ask your agent to set a deadline for receiving all offers. This approach discourages dragging negotiations and gives you a clear window for evaluating your options.

3. Compare Offers Beyond Just Price

It’s tempting to go with the highest offer, but the best deal isn’t always about money. Consider these factors:

  • Financing type (Cash offers can close faster and involve less risk than those relying on mortgage approvals.)

  • Contingencies (Fewer contingencies usually mean less risk for the seller.)

  • Earnest money deposit (Higher deposits show more serious intent.)

  • Closing timeline (Pick a buyer whose timeline aligns with yours.)

  • Request for concessions (Credits, repairs, or other seller costs can impact your bottom line.)

4. Send a Counteroffer or Request "Best and Final" Offers

If several offers are strong but not ideal, you can counter them individually or request all interested buyers to submit their “best and final” offers. This can drive the price up or help you negotiate more favorable terms.

5. Watch Out for Red Flags

Some offers may look great at first glance but include conditions that could derail the deal:

  • Long financing contingencies

  • Unusually low earnest money

  • Vague or missing pre-approval letters

  • Demands for excessive repairs or credits

An experienced agent can help you spot and navigate these concerns.

6. Consider Backup Offers

Don’t disregard other good offers just because you’ve accepted one. Having a strong backup offer can give you leverage or peace of mind if the first deal falls through.

7. Stay Ethical and Professional

Sellers must follow fair housing laws and avoid favoritism or discrimination. Be transparent in communications, and don’t mislead buyers to inflate offers—this could lead to legal complications.

8. Know When to Walk Away

Sometimes none of the offers meet your goals or expectations. It’s okay to walk away and wait for better opportunities—just be clear with all parties involved and consult your agent on how to proceed.

In a nutshell, receiving multiple offers is a seller’s dream, but choosing the right one takes more than just picking the highest price. By weighing your options carefully, consulting your real estate agent, and staying strategic, you can navigate this exciting phase with clarity and confidence.

Matt Witte strives to be the best realtor in Andover MA.

Any questions about real estate, reach out to Matt Witte Andover

Realtor MA