Sellers: Should You Accept the First Offer?

It's one of the most common questions I get from sellers, and the honest answer is, it depends. But there are some things worth knowing before you find yourself staring at an offer that came in on day two.

Why the First Offer Makes Sellers Nervous

The instinct is to wonder whether you left money on the table. If someone offered this quickly, maybe you priced too low. Maybe there's more interest coming. Maybe you should wait and see.

Sometimes that instinct is right. Often it isn't.

What the First Offer Usually Tells You

A strong offer on day one or two typically means your pricing was accurate and your home presented well. The buyer who moves fast has usually been looking for a while. They know the market, they know what things cost, and when they see something priced correctly they act quickly.

That buyer is often your best buyer. They're motivated, they've done their research, and they're not playing games.

When to Wait

If you launched with a strategy specifically designed to generate multiple offers, and you're in the first 48 hours, it can make sense to give the market a chance to respond before countering or accepting. Your agent should have set this expectation with the buyer upfront.

If the offer is below asking and came with a lot of conditions, it's worth understanding whether there's real intent behind it or whether it's a low opener from a buyer testing the water.

When the First Offer Is the Right Move

Clean offer, close to asking, reasonable terms, capable buyer. In that situation, overthinking it is a risk. I've seen sellers pass on solid first offers hoping for something better, and end up accepting less three weeks later when the market moved on.

Every situation is different. If you're weighing an offer right now and want a second opinion, get in touch.

Anj Catalano · The Agency · 310 404 6955 · hello@anjinla.com