Finding the right house often happens before you are ready to move. Perhaps your own home is not yet on the market, or you are waiting on a buyer before you can proceed. The good news is you can still make an offer, but it is important to understand how to strengthen it so sellers take you seriously.
Here are some proven ways to add weight to your offer.
When you are not proceedable, a full guide price (or higher) offer shows commitment and helps balance your weaker position.
Explain your circumstances clearly and openly. Sellers want confidence that your offer is genuine and not a hopeful placeholder.
Even if it is not sold yet, having your property listed shows you are serious and moving forward. It reassures sellers that progress is being made.
Get a mortgage agreement in principle, proof of funds for your deposit, and solicitor details ready. It signals you are prepared to move quickly once your sale is agreed.
Some buyers offer a holding deposit or enter into a purchase contract to demonstrate intent. While not always necessary, this can reassure sellers of your seriousness.
If the sellers have not yet found their next home, or they are waiting for a new property to be completed, offering to work with their timescales makes your offer easier to accept.
Most sellers will not take their home off the market until you are proceedable. Acknowledge this openly. It shows maturity and helps build trust.
A thoughtful letter can go a long way in giving sellers confidence. Here is an example you can adapt to your own circumstances:
Dear [Agent/Seller’s Name],
Thank you once again for letting us view [your beautiful home]. We were immediately struck by [mention feature you loved, for example, the gardens, the light, or the character of the house]. It feels like the perfect place for us to build the next chapter of our lives, and we can already picture ourselves calling it home.
Although our own property is not yet sold, we are delighted to put forward a full offer at the guide price of £[amount]. Our home is now on the market, and we have a mortgage in principle arranged. To give you confidence, we are happy to provide proof of funds and, if helpful, enter into a holding deposit or purchase contract to demonstrate our intent.
We would also be glad to work closely with you on timescales. Whether you need additional time to find the right onward property, or are waiting on a new home to be completed, we can be flexible to help make the process smooth for you.
We hope you will consider our offer favourably. We are genuinely committed to your home and would love the opportunity to work together with you for a seamless move that suits everyone.
With warm regards,
[Your Name]
Yes, an offer without a sale is weaker, but with the right approach it does not have to be dismissed. Sellers respond well to clarity, seriousness, and flexibility.
If you have fallen for a home and are not yet proceedable, talk to us. We will guide you on how best to present your offer so it carries weight and keeps you in the running for your dream property.
Whether you’re preparing to launch or stuck with a listing that’s fallen flat, we specialise in turning high-potential homes into standout successes. From strategic pricing to world-class presentation, we handle everything so your home attracts the right buyers and the strongest offers.
You’ll deal directly with us, Robert and Nicola, not a rotating team. We represent only a small number of homes at any one time, ensuring your property gets the full attention, energy, and expertise it deserves.
Call 01603 249996 or email [email protected] to start the conversation. Or click below to arrange your private consultation with the Estate Agent Norfolk trusts.
