Deciding which offer to accept on your home can feel like a balancing act between speed, price, and peace of mind. The first bid might seem appealing, especially if you are eager to move, but it is not always the one that will serve you best in the long run.
By assessing the offer carefully, identifying the qualities of a committed buyer, and approaching house price negotiation with confidence, you can secure a deal that genuinely meets your needs.
Related: What to consider when assessing an offer
Do I have to accept an offer on my house?
Many sellers wonder whether they have to accept an offer on their house, but the answer is clear. You are under no legal obligation to agree, even if it is a strong bid. You can decline, negotiate, or hold out for something better.
Sometimes the best decision is not to accept an offer straight away, especially if you have not yet gauged full market interest. Many sellers receive multiple offers on a house in the early days of marketing, so assessing each carefully could mean securing a higher price or more favourable terms.
Latest data from OnTheMarket shows 39% of sellers expect to find a buyer within three months, while 27% of buyers aim to secure a property in the same period. This shows that patience can pay off.
Related: Your guide to selling with a mortgage
What to consider before accepting an offer on a house
The figure on paper is only part of the story. Several other factors could determine whether the deal is truly right for you.
One of the first is whether you have other offers to compare against. If your property has attracted strong interest, you may find that buyers compete with each other, potentially improving their price or terms. This is particularly valuable if you are not in a rush, as it allows time to weigh up the pros and cons of each bid.
Next, consider how the offer compares to average house prices in your area. If it falls noticeably below similar properties without a clear reason, such as the home needing major work, it could be considered a cheeky offer on a house. If you are wondering “what is a cheeky offer on a house?”, it is typically one that is 5–10% under the asking price, although this depends on the local market and the seller’s situation.
Your onward purchase is another major factor. If you have already found the home you want to buy, you will need to ensure the accepted price covers your budget. Accepting a lower figure could mean compromising on your next property. If you are still looking, you may have more flexibility to negotiate or wait.
Finally, think about your buyer’s position. A cash buyer or first-time buyer is often able to proceed more quickly, whereas a purchaser involved in a long chain can increase the risk of delays or collapse. Even if their offer is slightly higher, a long chain may not be worth the uncertainty.
Related: Negotiating after the survey: a seller’s guide
How to negotiate a house price successfully
Receiving an offer that is too low does not have to end the conversation. Understanding how to negotiate house prices effectively can help bridge the gap. This could mean making a counteroffer, adjusting conditions like the completion date, or engaging in house price negotiation through your estate agent to keep discussions professional.
Sometimes, negotiation continues even after a deal is agreed upon. Situations such as a low mortgage valuation can lead to negotiating the house price after the offer is accepted, which may involve either reducing the price, splitting the difference, or sticking to your original figure and risking the buyer pulling out.
If you are unhappy with an initial bid, knowing how to renegotiate the house price and the boundaries of what you are prepared to accept will make the process far less stressful.
Related: How to negotiate with a buyer
How long can you take to respond to an offer?
There is no legal deadline for how long you can take to respond to an offer on a house. However, it is best to reply within a couple of days to keep the buyer engaged while still giving yourself time to consider your options. Even if you have not yet made a decision, providing an update through your agent shows that you are serious and organised.
Accepting an offer and ensuring a smooth sale
When you are ready, knowing how to accept an offer is important. Your estate agent will handle the formalities, including notifying the buyer, preparing the memorandum of sale, and liaising with solicitors. If you are accepting an offer on a house, you will also want to confirm any agreed-upon terms in writing to avoid later disputes. While price negotiation can still happen after this stage, it is less common and should be approached carefully to protect the deal.
Making the right choice when selling
Deciding whether to accept, reject, or renegotiate an offer can be both emotionally and financially challenging. The right offer is about more than the number on the page; it is about the security of the deal, the timing of your move, and how well it supports your plans.
A skilled Whitegates estate agent will provide a realistic valuation, vet buyers for financial readiness, guide you through every stage of price negotiation, and handle difficult conversations on your behalf so you can focus on your goals. For expert guidance and a sale you can feel confident about, contact Whitegates today.
