How do I compete with cash and investor offers?
Competing with cash buyers requires making your offer as clean and attractive as possible. Get fully preapproved with a local lender so the seller knows your financing is solid. Consider shortening your inspection period from the standard ten days or offering to buy the home in as is condition while still doing your inspection for information only. Increase your earnest money deposit to show commitment. Avoid unnecessary contingencies like selling your current home first. Write a competitive price based on recent comparable sales, and be ready to move quickly since cash buyers can often close faster. An escalation clause can help you automatically outbid competing offers up to your maximum price. Jon can help you structure a strong offer and advise on what terms matter most to each seller.
More on offers and negotiation
- How do I win in a multiple-offer situation or bidding war?
- How much below asking price can I offer?
- What are seller concessions and can the seller pay my closing costs?
- How much earnest money should I put down?
- Should I waive the inspection or appraisal contingency to win?
- How do I make an offer on a house?
Meet Jon Hegreness

Jon Hegreness
REALTOR / Associate Broker · Howe Realty
AZ License BR540940000
Full-time Phoenix North Valley REALTOR and Associate Broker with 24 years in Arizona residential real estate. A negotiator and problem solver who works the way you would want a friend in the business to work: direct, on your side, and steady through the parts that get complicated.
