How to make the winning offer on any house
You’ve found the house. It’s perfect. And just as you start imagining your furniture in the living room… you hear there are already five offers on the table.
If you’ve tried house-hunting in a sought-after suburb recently, you’ll know the market can feel like a battleground. Even with higher interest rates and economic uncertainty in play, the best properties still get snapped up quickly – often with multiple offers competing for the seller’s attention.
So how do you rise above the crowd and secure your dream home without overpaying or compromising on your wish list?
According to David Jacobs, Regional Sales Manager for the Rawson Property Group, it’s all about strategy, and standing out in subtle but powerful ways.
“There are a lot of buyers out there who are technically ready to buy but haven’t thought about how to make themselves appealing to a seller,” says Jacobs. “The trick is to be more than just another offer on paper – you want to be the offer that makes the seller feel confident, secure, and maybe even a little relieved.”
Here’s how to do just that:
Be faster than fast – be ready
One of the most underrated tools in a buyer’s arsenal is prequalification.
“A seller is far more likely to consider your offer seriously if it comes with prequalification paperwork,” says Jacobs. “It shows that you’re financially vetted, motivated, and won’t waste anyone’s time.”
Even better? Have your deposit ready to go. While 100% bonds are still available in certain cases, buyers with deposits often get better interest rates – sometimes as much as 2% lower – and come across as more serious.
It’s not enough to just browse online listings. Getting to know local estate agents can give you a front-row seat to new stock – before it hits the online portals.
“We always prioritise buyers who’ve made an effort to build relationships,” says Jacobs. “They’re top of mind when something new comes in, especially if it’s going to move quickly.”
Agents may also alert you to “pocket listings” (properties not publicly listed) or give you the heads-up on properties about to be released – a critical edge in fast-paced areas.
Make flexibility your superpower
Sometimes it’s not the highest offer that wins, it’s the most accommodating one. If a seller is in a rush, offering a short transfer period might help. If they need time to find a new place, being open to a delayed occupation date or even a rent-back arrangement could clinch the deal.
“Flexibility is a big win for sellers,” Jacobs explains. “If you can make the process easier for them, they’ll remember that, even if someone else is offering a little more.”
Sweeten the deal with a bigger deposit
While most buyers stick to the standard 10% deposit, offering more upfront – if you’re able – can instantly set you apart.
“A larger deposit reduces the bank’s risk and sends a strong message to the seller that you’re financially solid and highly committed,” says Jacobs. “We’ve seen deals swing in favour of buyers who put down 15% or even 20%, even when other offers were slightly higher.”
According to Antonie Goosen, principal and founder of Meridian Realty, one of the most common mistakes is focusing solely on the purchase price. “Many first-time buyers stretch themselves to qualify for the bond, without considering whether they can comfortably sustain the monthly costs,” he explains. “Affordability is about more than bank approval.”
Common mistakes first-time buyers make
1. Letting emotions drive decisions
“It’s easy to fall in love with a property and overlook practical considerations,” says Goosen. Buyers should step back and evaluate whether a home truly fits their budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans.
2. Misunderstanding the negotiation process
“Some buyers assume that because the market is balanced, they can make aggressive offers on any property,” Goosen notes. “Well-priced homes still attract strong interest, and unrealistic offers are often rejected outright.”
3. Skipping professional advice
Trying to save money by avoiding inspections or legal guidance can be costly. Goosen warns, “Hidden defects or contractual misunderstandings can be extremely expensive down the line.”
4. Underestimating the time and complexity involved
“Property transactions involve multiple parties,” he adds. “Rushing decisions usually leads to regret.”
5. Overlooking additional costs and planning ahead
Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX Southern Africa, emphasizes that buyers often underestimate the extra costs involved in buying a home. “First-time buyers need to budget not just for the purchase price but also for bond registration fees, transfer duties, insurance, maintenance, and municipal rates,” he says. “Planning ahead prevents unpleasant surprises.”
6. Ignoring financing options and pre-approval
Goslett advises: “Getting pre-approved for a bond not only clarifies your budget but also strengthens your offer in the eyes of sellers. Buyers who start without understanding their borrowing capacity often face disappointment or overspend.”
Strike fast when it feels right
In competitive markets, hesitation can cost you your dream home. That doesn’t mean rushing into a poor decision, but if you’ve done your research, secured your finances, and know what you want, move swiftly when the right property appears.
“Indecision is one of the biggest mistakes buyers make,” says Jacobs. “The good stuff goes quickly. If you love it, chances are someone else does too. ”In a market where timing, trust and tenacity matter, it’s the well-prepared buyer who wins.
“Buying a home doesn’t need to be a frustrating experience,” says Jacobs. “With the right strategy, a bit of preparation, and some emotional intelligence, you can absolutely make yourself the obvious choice – even in a bidding war.”
So go ahead: get prequalified, polish your paperwork, and maybe even start drafting that heartfelt letter. Your dream home might be closer than you think.
Original Article: https://www.property24.com/articles/how-to-make-the-winning-offer-on-any-house/32966