Making an Offer

There is no greater feeling than finding the home you've always dreamed of owning. Once you've determined that the home meets all of your housing needs and is within your budget, you must decide how much the home is worth, and what the seller will settle for on price.

There are several points to address when you make an offer:

• Your preferred selling price (your offer).
• Financing and home inspection contingencies (for example, subject to acceptable interest rates and inspection report).
• Property, furnishings and other features included in sales price.
• Conditions of your earnest money deposit.

If the seller accepts your offer, consult your community bank for a mortgage loan. If the seller makes a counteroffer, take time to review it, paying particular attention to whether it suits your needs. If your offer is rejected, ask your community bank about alternate financing options that may increase your buying leverage and allow you to make a more attractive offer.