As-is Earnest money deposit Rent back 
Redfin
JULY 30, 2025
In addition to getting pre-approved, having cash reserves prepared for your earnest money deposit and other closing expenses is also one of the top tips for making an offer on a house. In the average market, a typical earnest money deposit is 1-3% of the home’s purchase price.
Redfin
JULY 17, 2025
Earnest money deposit: A higher deposit signals serious intent and financial stability. Closing timeline: Aligning with the seller’s preferred timeline—or offering a rent-back—can give you an edge. Sellers usually ask for BAFOs when multiple buyers are interested and want to simplify negotiations.
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Redfin
JUNE 12, 2025
Strong earnest money deposit: A higher deposit signals you’re serious and financially committed; giving sellers more peace of mind. Flexible move-out or rent-back options: Sellers who haven’t secured their next home may appreciate extra time to move or stay temporarily after closing. Not at all.
Redfin
AUGUST 4, 2025
Be ready to: Go into the negotiation expecting a back-and-forth exchange, and always expect the seller to counter your offer Adjust other terms like closing, contingencies, or personal property included in the sale If possible, be flexible when it comes to timing. It starts with gathering data and assessing the overall situation.
HomeLight
SEPTEMBER 11, 2020
Your offer will be stronger if you build in some wiggle room relating to factors that might seriously entice the seller to pick you: Can you offer rent-back? Source: (Andrea Piacquadio / Pexels). Educate yourself about how offers work. It’s a legally binding document once it’s signed by both you and the seller. A bigger down payment?
Realtor.com
OCTOBER 29, 2020
If something is wrong, you can request that it be fixed—or you can back out of the sale. Financing contingency: This contingency gives you the right to back out of the deal if your mortgage approval falls through. Clear the title. As the home buyer of this piece of real estate, you’re entitled to choose the title company.
HomeLight
MARCH 2, 2023
Consider factors such as how long you plan to be in the area, if you have steady employment, and if you have enough money saved for not just the down payment, but for closing costs , maintenance, property taxes, and more. If this all sounds perfect and you’re getting serious about purchasing a home in San Diego, read on.
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