“The first offer may not be the best one—but how you respond matters most.”

FSBO sellers often accept or reject offers emotionally, without reviewing legal details or weighing negotiation options.

Take time to:

• Read the full offer—including timelines, financing, and contingencies
• Review all terms with a licensed real estate attorney
• Confirm buyer pre-approval or proof of funds
• Respond in writing within the stated deadline
• Consider your counteroffer options (price, closing date, repairs)

A calm, clear response sets the tone for everything that follows.

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“The number isn’t everything—it’s the strings attached that matter.”

Sellers focus on the offer price, but ignore terms like contingencies, financing conditions, or inspection clauses that can make or break the deal.

Evaluate:

• Closing timeline
• Down payment amount
• Type of financing and lender
• Inspection window and repair requests
• Contingencies (home sale, financing, appraisal)
• Concessions (credits, included appliances, etc.)

Legal review ensures you're not giving up value beyond the price tag.

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“A good offer isn’t always your best offer—but waiting too long can backfire.”

Some sellers dismiss solid offers hoping for more, but risk losing the first buyer and getting no others.

If the offer is fair but not ideal:

• Counter with adjusted price or terms
• Keep the tone professional and respectful
• Set a short expiration for your counteroffer
• Don’t delay too long—buyers move fast

Work with a legal advisor if needed to help write a clean counter in contract form.

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“Multiple offers are great—but mishandling them can kill buyer trust.”

FSBO sellers sometimes share offer details or create bidding wars that backfire and lead to cancellations.

Keep your process private and professional:

• Don’t disclose offer details without consent
• Review all offers carefully before responding
• Accept one or issue a counter with clear terms
• Respond within the time window stated in each offer
• Consider legal guidance if you're unsure about competitive strategies

A strong buyer wants transparency and structure—not confusion.

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“Just because it's ‘as-is’ doesn't mean you're off the hook completely.”

FSBO sellers often misunderstand post-inspection negotiation, or feel pressured to accept repair demands.

Once inspection is complete:

• Review the report carefully with a legal or real estate advisor
• You can offer:
  • A price reduction
  • A credit at closing
  • To repair specific items
• Or, you can reject the request if the contract allows

Be fair but firm—buyers want a solution, not perfection.

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“Verbal promises don’t protect you—only what’s on paper does.”

Sellers may agree to something in conversation and forget to put it in writing—or assume a “yes” means the deal is done.

To avoid legal disputes:

• Never negotiate important terms by phone only
• Use email or written counteroffer forms
• Don’t sign anything you don’t fully understand
• Keep communication respectful and documented

Legal professionals can help revise offers and protect your position if something goes wrong.

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“Once it’s signed, you’re committed—unless your contract says otherwise.”

Some FSBO sellers change their mind after signing a deal, but don’t realize they may be in breach of contract.

You may only cancel if:

• The contract has a seller-side contingency
• The buyer fails to meet a deadline
• Both parties agree in writing to terminate

Walking away without cause can result in legal consequences. Always review the exit clauses before accepting any offer.

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“Confidence comes from clarity—pressure fades when your process is solid.”

FSBO sellers sometimes agree to rushed deals or verbal changes just to “keep the deal alive”—but that’s risky.

If you feel pressured:

• Slow the process and request time to review
• Ask the buyer to put any changes in writing
• Pause communication until your attorney or advisor can weigh in
• Don’t feel forced to accept any changes on the spot

A well-structured process gives you leverage—and confidence.

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