Gross price, credits & estimated net
Start with gross price, then account for seller credits, agreed costs, payoff estimates and carrying costs to the proposed closing. Ask for comparable net estimates; the same price can produce different proceeds.
Decision intelligence
Compare what each offer can deliver.
Highest price is not automatically the strongest offer.
Financing, down payment & earnest money
Review financing type, down payment, earnest money, lender information and documented ability to perform. Cash or a larger deposit is not automatically superior; compare the actual obligations and remaining dependencies.
Appraisal exposure
Examine any appraisal condition, supported gap commitment and cash capacity. If escalation is used, understand the evidence mechanism and resulting price. A high number without an executable funding plan can be fragile.
Inspection & other contingencies
Compare inspection rights, financing and sale-of-home conditions, response requirements and deadlines. Fewer contingencies can reduce some uncertainty, but do not erase a property issue or guarantee settlement.
Settlement, rent-back & complexity
Compare settlement dates, possession, rent-back terms, insurance questions and interdependent moves. Consider the practical cost of accommodating each offer and whether the promised timeline is credible.
Negotiate the combination
A lower-priced offer may sometimes deliver a higher net, less risk, faster settlement or greater certainty. Compare the evidence for this transaction rather than assuming one structure is always best. Counter on price, credits, timing or other terms according to your priorities.