I have had buyers who have their first offer accepted, and others that have written ten offers. If your Realtor has a good local reputation, and the respect of her peers, your odds of an accepted offer will increase. However,
there are other factors, such as: 1. How many homes are on the market and how many buyers are looking?
2. Downpayment. Typically a buyer with a larger down payment will have an edge over a buyer with a lower down payment, such as FHA 3.5% down. 3. Buyers looking for homes that are in "move-in" condition will have more competiton. 4. Homes under $350,000 are more in demand, with more competition.
It is important to have a pre-approval letter from a direct lender, proof of your funds for a downpayment, and a clear strong offer. I always write a cover letter for my clients, which can often help. The key is to NOT give up and be sure you have chosen a Realtor who will keep you updated immediately on new listings. Be as available as possible to come out and look at the home.

I'm surprised no one said it depends on the Realtor you have hired. If you hire an experienced professional Realtor it shouldn't take many at all. Choosing the right Realtor when purchasing is key. Many Realtors and buyer's don't realize the importance of an agent that not only can write a strong offer but one that is connected with many agency relationships as well.
Most Realtors work for free and you will be purchasing probably one of your largest assets ever. Interview three agents or more if you need to. I'm surprised at how many people just go with the first one they meet. Often because of my Accredited Buyer's Representative designations buyer's seek me out after being dissappointed with their first Realtor. You owe it to yourself to find the agent for the job.

Mr. Rodhall

That question is tricky. All other answer s are correct It all all depends, on the sellers situation. If seller's in a rush/desperate, there's a faster chance they'll accept the offer, as long as its a reasonable offer.

Good luck, feel free to call if you need assistance.

Merlin Barrientos
Realtor Associate
Keller Williams Realty
cell 661 713-8780
merlin1@inbox.com
dre01761948

Hi Rodhall,
It depends on the type of properties you are putting offers in on. Inventory is very tight here in Santa Clarita, there is alot of buyer competition going on right now. You need a very strong agent who can guide you through this current real estate market.

-Jennifer Ricco

This depends on the sellers situation, the strength of your offer (which includes the price offered relative to list price, the finance conditions, the amount of down payment, cash placed in escrow, etc.), the location and number of homes on the market in the immediate area, and how unique the home is.

From a sellers perspective, I have a friend who has been a broker for 40+ years who is fond of saying - "the 1st offer is typically your best offer". That doesn't mean it gets accepted right away, but sellers should be encouraged to engage in negotiations with anyone making a legitimate offer.

How much you can offer below asking price is going to be specific to the home your are offering to purchase. Your agent is going to be your best guide for what a property is worth, and where you might start your offer.

It really depends on the property, location, condition, pricing, etc. A strong offer is always a good start based on recently sold similar properties in the immediate area.