01/06/2026
SMART buyers ask their Realtor to include these in their offer
(Most buyers forget)
You can have the highest offer and still lose the deal — or worse, win and get burned at closing — because you skipped key protections.
Here’s what separates prepared buyers from everyone else 👇
1. Home Warranty Coverage
Ask the seller to include a 1-year home warranty.
It costs them $500–$700 but can save you thousands if the furnace dies or the water heater fails a few months after move-in.
Most buyers never think to ask.
2. Specific Repair Deadline Language
Don’t accept vague wording like:
“Repairs will be completed before closing.”
Instead, get specific:
“All agreed repairs must be completed and re-inspected by [date], at least 5 days prior to closing.”
Vague language leads to rushed repairs and closing-day chaos.
3. All Window Coverings Included
Sellers often take expensive blinds and shutters with them.
If your offer doesn’t specifically state “all existing window coverings,” you could move into bare windows.
That’s a $3,000–$5,000 mistake.
4. Seller-Paid Closing Cost Credits
Buyers can often negotiate 1–3% of the purchase price toward closing costs.
On a $400K–$600K home, that can mean thousands paid by the seller.
Especially if the home has been sitting, your agent should be asking.
5. Post-Closing Occupancy Terms
Need the seller out by a specific date?
Lock it in — tight.
Include daily penalties of $200–$500 if they don’t vacate on time.
This keeps the deal moving and protects you.
Bottom line
Your offer isn’t just about price.
It’s about protection and thinking 10 steps ahead.
Most buyers focus on getting accepted.
Smart buyers focus on winning the right way — with protections built in from day one.
Save this for your next offer.
And if you’re buying in Ave Maria, FL, make sure your agent is writing offers that protect you.
👉 Comment, share, and like if this helped.
