Ready to Make an Offer

Own the moment

This is it! You've got your trusty list of wants and needs, a heroic agent, and an intrepid lender –all on your side as you pursue the house that might soon become your home. Adding a seller and the seller’s team to the mix can make the process feel even more intense. But, don't sweat it. Together, we can help you own it all – the process and your soon-to-be home!

Keep in mind...

Take note of features in the home that may cause road bumps later. For example, if the home has a fireplace, swimming pool, private sewer, you’ll likely need a specialist to inspect it these properly.

Pre-offer checklists

A pre-offer checklist (psst…Keep has one in the app!) helps you keep a clear head and walks you through a basic inspection of the property that will give you valuable info to consider in preparing an offer.

What's earnest money?

Earnest money is a deposit you make after your seller accepts your offer and you sign a contract with intention to buy the home. Basically, it demonstrates that you’re committed to making the purchase.

Make a fair and winning offer (it's an art!)

Think of your offer as the beginning of a conversation. Your ultimate goal is to craft a winner –one that accounts for your needs and feels fair to the seller too. Start by looking at the asking price against the prices of comparable homes. Review the seller’s property disclosure. If the home needs major repairs, adjust your offer accordingly.

Your offer arrives to the seller as a purchase agreement. The conversation will unfold in one of three ways: 1. The seller accepts your offer (congratulations, and onward!) 2.The seller comes back with a counteroffer (the plot thickens…) 3. Your offer is rejected. (ok, bummer but onward still…) If this happens, try to remember that in order for a home to be truly right, it has to come at a price you’re comfortable with.

Inspect everything from stoop to shingles

A home inspection might be the only time a single professional will analyze every part of your home in one go. We recommend taking this rare opportunity to learn everything you possibly can. Interview at least two inspectors to find a trustworthy, licensed expert with experience in the specific aspects of the home. Attend as much of the inspection as you can and take notes!

A good inspector will also be taking extensive notes for you –so you’ll have plenty of documentation when the inspection is complete. If anything unexpected comes up, you have every right to go back to your broker or agent and revise the purchase agreement.

We recommend making any repairs that impact your safety (lead, asbestos, mold, wiring) before you move in. Smaller stuff can wait until you’re less busy.

Lock-in final loan details

You’ve been talking about loans for a while now. And though it’s been the hot topic for quite some time –this is your loan’s big moment: the lock-in. When you and the seller both accept the purchase agreement, your lender sends you the loan estimate, which includes all the up-to-date details of your loan terms and payments. Essentially, your rate is now “in stone.”

Since a lender can’t approve a loan for more than a home’s appraised value, your lender will arrange for an official appraisal. On the other side is underwriting, which is basically a final check of all your paperwork and other requirements.

Lenders will keep an eye on your finances all through this process, so be careful not to make any big purchases until after you close.

Got an accepted offer? Congrats! What’s next?

Finalize your purchase >

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