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Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make—and with it comes the negotiation process. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned seller, or simply curious about how real estate deals come together in Swift Current, here’s a clear breakdown of how negotiating an offer typically works.
Step 1: Submitting an Offer
Once a buyer finds a property they love, their REALTOR® will help them prepare a written offer. This offer outlines important details such as:
- Purchase price
- Deposit amount
- Possession date
- Conditions (e.g., financing, home inspection)
The offer is then presented to the seller through their listing agent.
Step 2: Seller’s Response
The seller has three options:
- Accept the offer as is – The home is effectively sold, pending any conditions.
- Reject the offer – The negotiation ends there.
- Counter the offer – The seller proposes changes, often to the price, possession date, or conditions.
Step 3: Back-and-Forth Negotiation
If the seller counters, the ball goes back to the buyer. This back-and-forth can continue until both parties reach terms they’re comfortable with—or until one side walks away.
- Buyers often focus on affordability, possession timelines, and key conditions.
- Sellers typically prioritize price, certainty, and closing speed.
This stage requires strategy, patience, and a level head. That’s where a skilled REALTOR® really makes a difference.
Step 4: Conditional Period
Once both parties agree, the offer becomes “conditional.” The buyer now has a set period (often 7–10 days) to satisfy their conditions, such as securing mortgage approval, completing a home inspection, or reviewing property disclosures.
If conditions are met, the deal goes firm. If not, the buyer can walk away and recover their deposit.
Step 5: Finalizing the Deal
With conditions removed, lawyers prepare the paperwork, funds are transferred, and ownership is officially transferred on possession day. At this point, the home is truly transferred.
Tips for Successful Negotiations
- Know your priorities: Decide what matters most—price, possession, or conditions.
- Be realistic: Overly aggressive offers or counters can stall a deal.
- Stay professional: Negotiations can be emotional, but keeping calm ensures better results.
- Work with your REALTOR®: Your agent knows the local Swift Current market and can guide you toward a fair outcome.
Final Thoughts
Negotiating an offer doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With the right REALTOR® on your side, the process becomes manageable and often even exciting. Every negotiation is different, but the goal is always the same: finding an agreement that works for both buyer and seller.
If you’re considering buying or selling in Swift Current and want a professional negotiator in your corner, reach out today. I’d be happy to walk you through the process and help you achieve your real estate goals.
