By Homes by Marlyse
If you're buying a home in Los Angeles, chances are you’re not the only one eyeing that perfect property. In a market this competitive, the right offer can make all the difference between landing your dream home or losing out to another buyer. I’ve helped clients succeed in bidding wars and high-stakes negotiations, and there are proven strategies that work. Let’s walk through how to make a winning offer when every minute—and every detail—counts.
Key Takeaways
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Be fully prepared before you tour your first home.
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A strong offer is about more than just price.
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Terms, contingencies, and timing all play a role.
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Working with the right agent gives you a competitive edge.
Get Pre-Approved Before You Start
If you’re serious about buying, your financing should be ready before you write an offer. In LA’s fast-paced market, sellers rarely consider buyers who aren’t already pre-approved.
What to Have Ready
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Pre-approval letter from a trusted lender
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Proof of funds for your down payment
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A clear understanding of your max budget
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Confidence in your monthly payment range
Understand the Seller’s Priorities
Winning an offer isn’t always about offering the most money. Timing, certainty, and convenience matter to sellers too. I always reach out to the listing agent to understand what the seller is really looking for.
Questions That Can Guide Your Offer
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Does the seller need a quick or flexible closing date?
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Are they buying another home and need a lease-back?
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Do they prefer a clean offer with fewer contingencies?
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Have there been other offers already?
Structure Your Offer Strategically
The structure of your offer tells the seller how serious and committed you are. The cleaner and more buyer-friendly it looks, the more likely it is to be accepted.
Offer Components That Stand Out
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Strong purchase price – Competitive, but still within reason.
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Short contingency periods – Especially for inspections and appraisal.
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High earnest money deposit – Shows financial commitment.
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Flexible closing date – Tailored to the seller’s needs.
Consider a Personal Touch
While not every seller is swayed by emotion, a well-written buyer letter can still help. It’s not about pulling heartstrings—it’s about showing respect, reliability, and why you truly love the home.
What to Include in a Buyer Letter
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Brief intro about who you are
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What you love about the home
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Your plans for the property
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Gratitude for their consideration
Partner with a Skilled Local Agent
Your offer is only as strong as the agent who writes and presents it. I negotiate every day in this market, and I know how to position buyers so their offers rise to the top. That means knowing how to read the room—and the listing agent.
Why Representation Matters
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Direct communication with the seller’s agent
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Understanding of recent comps and pricing trends
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Quick response to counters or new offers
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Experience crafting clean, compelling terms
FAQs About Making a Winning Offer
Should I waive my contingencies to win?
Not always. We’ll review your options carefully—some contingencies can be shortened instead of waived entirely.
What if I’m outbid?
We’ll prepare a backup strategy and consider escalation clauses, depending on the situation.
Can I back out after my offer is accepted?
If you included contingencies (like inspection or financing), yes—within those timelines. Otherwise, backing out may forfeit your deposit.
Contact Me at Homes by Marlyse Today
In a fast-moving market like Los Angeles, timing, preparation, and strategy are everything. I’ll help you craft an offer that reflects your goals while giving you the best possible shot at winning the home you want.
Let Homes by Marlyse help you approach the market with confidence and clarity. Whether it’s your first offer or your fifth, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out today and let’s talk about how to make your next offer count.
Let Homes by Marlyse help you approach the market with confidence and clarity. Whether it’s your first offer or your fifth, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out today and let’s talk about how to make your next offer count.
