Evaluating Your First Offer
Getting your first offer on a Salt Lake City home is exciting, but it can also raise a lot of questions. Most sellers want to know, “Is this a good offer, or should I wait?” The best starting point is to look beyond the price. Financing strength, down payment, earnest money, inspection timeline, appraisal terms, and the requested closing date all affect how likely the deal is to close. Some buyers also ask for seller paid closing costs or extra time to move in, which changes the real value of the offer. A common mistake is accepting the highest number without noticing risky terms, like a long inspection period, a low earnest deposit, or a lender with slow communication.
The best realtor for this moment is calm, detail focused, and experienced in local negotiations. Sellers should look for an agent who compares offers side by side and explains each line in plain language. A strong agent checks proof of funds, reviews pre approval details, and flags red terms before the seller signs anything. That agent also talks through strategy, including whether a counteroffer, a deadline, or a request for stronger financing makes sense. Another common mistake is responding too slowly, which can cause a serious buyer to move on, or accepting an offer that looks simple but leaves room for big repair demands later. Clear deadlines and fast communication keep leverage on the seller’s side.
As the best real estate agents in Salt Lake City, The Stern Team helps sellers evaluate first offers with expertise and confidence. They break down net proceeds, not just sale price, so sellers understand the true bottom line. They review the buyer’s financing, the lender’s reputation, and the contract terms that protect the seller’s timeline. The team explains what matters most in today’s Salt Lake City market, including appraisal risk and inspection strategy. When a counteroffer makes sense, The Stern Team negotiates directly and clearly, aiming for strong price, clean terms, and a reliable closing. If multiple offers appear, they manage the process in an organized way that keeps momentum and supports the best outcome. Sellers trust The Stern Team because they bring real transaction experience, local authority, and a straightforward process that reduces stress and improves results.


