How to Handle Multiple Offers on Your Home: Seller’s Guide 2025

Getting multiple offers on your home sounds like a dream—but it can quickly turn overwhelming if you’re not prepared. In a competitive market like Bend and Central Oregon, sellers often find themselves juggling several offers. Here’s how to navigate this situation smartly and strategically.

1. Don’t Automatically Go for the Highest Offer

It’s tempting to pick the highest bid, but price isn’t the only factor. Look at contingencies, financing type, closing timelines, and whether the offer is solid or risky. A slightly lower offer with fewer contingencies (like no inspection or appraisal waiver) might be a safer bet than a top-dollar offer full of “if’s.”

2. Review Buyer Financing Strength

Is the buyer pre-approved (not just pre-qualified)? Are they paying in cash? Offers with strong financing or verified funds typically have a higher chance of closing smoothly.

3. Evaluate Contingencies Carefully

Offers may come with contingencies like:

• Inspection Contingency — Will they walk away if issues arise?

• Appraisal Contingency — Will they back out if the home appraises low?

• Home Sale Contingency — Is their offer dependent on selling another home first?Fewer contingencies often mean a cleaner, stronger offer.

4. Consider Buyer Flexibility

Buyers who are flexible on closing dates or offer a rent-back agreement can be extremely valuable if you need extra time to move out or buy a new home.

5. Send Out a Multiple Counteroffer

If several offers are close, you can issue a “multiple counteroffer.” This allows you to negotiate terms (price, contingencies, etc.) with several buyers at once, rather than committing to just one.

6. Look at Earnest Money Deposits

A larger earnest money deposit signals serious intent. If a buyer is willing to put down a substantial deposit, it shows commitment to follow through with the deal.

7. Lean on Your Realtor for Strategy

Your listing agent’s job is to guide you through this process. They’ll help you compare offers, communicate with buyers’ agents, and negotiate terms to get you the best combination of price, certainty, and convenience.

Multiple offers are an opportunity, but also a moment to be strategic. It’s not always about the highest price—it’s about choosing the right offer that’s most likely to close smoothly, on your terms.

FAQs: Handling Multiple Offers as a Seller

Q1: Should I always pick the highest offer?

A: Not necessarily. The highest offer may come with risky contingencies or financing issues. A slightly lower offer with stronger terms (like cash or no contingencies) might be safer and close faster.

Q2: What are contingencies, and why do they matter?

A: Contingencies are conditions that must be met for the sale to close. Common ones include inspections, appraisals, and the buyer needing to sell their own home. Fewer contingencies = less risk for you.

Q3: Can I negotiate with multiple buyers at once?

A: Yes, through a "multiple counteroffer" process. You can counter several buyers simultaneously, giving them a chance to improve their terms.

Q4: How important is a buyer’s financing?

A: Very important. Cash offers are ideal, but buyers with solid loan pre-approvals (not just pre-qualifications) are also strong contenders. Weak financing can lead to a deal falling through.

Q5: What if I accept an offer and then get a better one?

A: Once you accept an offer, you’re under contract and generally can’t accept another unless the first deal falls through. That’s why it’s crucial to pick the right offer upfront or use a backup offer strategy.

Q6: How does a backup offer work?

A: A backup offer is a signed agreement with a second buyer that goes into effect if the first deal collapses. It keeps you covered without having to re-list the property.

Q7: Should I wait for more offers after getting a strong one?

A: It depends on your timeline and market conditions. If you're in a hot market and early in your listing, it might be worth waiting. Your realtor can guide you on the risk vs. reward.

Q8: Can buyers try to outbid each other after I counter?

A: Yes, this is known as a bidding war. However, handle it carefully—being transparent and fair is essential. Your realtor will manage the process to avoid alienating buyers.