Prepared by Matt Van Voorhis - The Hockey REALTORĀ®
Evaluation Framework
How to Evaluate an Offer the Right Way
Price gets all the headlines ā but the strongest offer isn't always the highest number. A great offer is one that actually closes, on your timeline, with minimal surprises along the way. Here are the four pillars we'll use to assess every offer on the table.
Price
The offer amount and how it compares to list price and market value.
Terms
Contingencies, concessions, and clauses that affect your net and your flexibility.
Risk
How likely is this offer to close? Financing strength and contingencies tell the story.
Flexibility
Does the timeline work for you? Closing date and possession terms can make or break a deal.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Offer Comparison at a Glance
Use this table to quickly compare all offers across the key categories that matter most to you as the seller. We'll go deeper on each one in the following sections.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Offer Comparison at a Glance Continued
Use this table to quickly compare all offers across the key categories that matter most to you as the seller. We'll go deeper on each one in the following sections.
Offer 1
Offer #1 ā Deep Dive
Purchase Price
$410,000
Financing Type
Conventional
Down Payment
10% ā $41,000
Earnest Money
$3,000ā due within 2 business days
Terms Breakdown
Inspection
5 Day Inspection Contingency
Appraisal
Contingent on appraisal
Financing
Pre-approved by Cross Country Mortgage. The buyer's are pre-approved to put 20% down.
Timeline
Closing: 5/29/2026 ā Possession: Immediately after closing.
Written statement date is 2 weeks prior to closing.
ā ļø Considerations
5 day Inspection contingency.
Low earnest money at $3,000. Typical is 1% of the purchase price.
Written statement money refunded to buyer if the buyer is unable to close.
Offer 2
Offer #2 ā Deep Dive
Purchase Price
$410,000
Financing Type
Conventional
Down Payment
3% ā $12,300
Earnest Money
$7,000 ā due within 2 business days
Terms Breakdown
Inspection
7 day contingency. Per the contract on line 194 seller will ensure that all attic access points are accessible, with seals broken, prior to the home inspection (not uncommon to ask).
Appraisal
Contingent on appraisal.
Financing
Pre-approved by Magnolia Bank. They are fully pre-approved.
Timeline
Closing: 5/29/2026 ā Possession: Immediately after closing.
Purchase price is the headline ā but your estimated net proceeds tell the real story. After accounting for commission, seller-paid costs, closing fees, and any concessions, here's how each offer stacks up in your po