Interest rates are low, housing supply is scarce and there is fierce competition. In many parts of the country, this is the current real estate market, which can be difficult for purchasers.

It is important for homebuyers to find ways to have their offer stand out. Here are some tips for that.

Eliminate Any Variables

In a highly competitive environment, the less restrictions you place on your offer as a purchaser, the more likely it is to be accepted. Contingencies exist in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the fewer you have, the more appealing your offer may be.

Pay More Upfront

Another effective way to get a seller’s interest is to grow their confidence in you as a qualified borrower by putting more money down in the form of a greater down payment. Which would make sense because look at it like this: If you are selling your home would you rather sell to someone putting the minimum down payment or at least 20 percent down?

Not to mention a greater down payment will better compete against cash offers, which may also allow borrowers to offer more than all-cash bids.

Make the Most Generous Offer First

Sellers will typically choose a greater price over all other offers. Do try to submit the highest offer you can knowing what the seller wants. For example, maybe offer a rent-back provided the sellers future home ownership plans are delayed. Or, if it’s all about price, then potentially adding an escalation clause could help in a bidding war.

Try to keep your budget in mind when house hunting, and don’t let your emotions get the best of you so you don’t end up with a mortgage you can’t afford.

Get a Mortgage Preapproval

It can be uneasy and exhausting to go through the mortgage preapproval process. For example, many first-time homebuyers are often confused as to why they must commitment before even seeing a house, but given the competitiveness of the market sometimes buyers don’t have a choice. Being preapproved not only tells you what price range you should be focusing on, but it also will show a seller that you’re serious about your offer that you can afford it. This is a way to stand out from other buyers unwilling to proactively take steps to get into contract.

Unique Loan Programs

Research lenders that offer unique loan programs for your needs including ones that can guarantee closing on time or that may offer seller commitments.

At, Element Mortgage, we provide you the option of a seller’s commitment backed by our lenders. The KOT (Keys on Time) program ensures that you will have a timely close or we will give a credit of up to $2,000*.

So, get ahead of the game and back up your offer with lender approval from us and our assurance to help you close.

Please do not hesitate to contact me for how to compete in this competitive real estate market.

Email me at [email protected] or give me a call at 916.880.8059!

*Commitment not available in Oregon. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.apmortgage.com/kot for full details or you may ask for a printed copy of the terms.

About Kyle

With nearly a decade of experience in the mortgage and real estate industries, I have a strong understanding of how to evaluate an individual’s situation and determine how to best meet their goals. My approach for California, Nevada, and Colorado current or future homeowners is to educate, advise and deliver a top-notch customer experience.

I’m committed to working for my clients as their mortgage expert, advocate, and partner in their journey toward purchasing or refinancing a home.