🏡 Buying in a Competitive Market? Here’s How to Stand Out
Utah’s real estate market remains competitive—especially in hot areas like Salt Lake County, Utah County, and Davis County. Homes that show great and are priced carefully are selling fast, often with multiple offers. If you're a buyer, it's critical to be prepared, proactive, and strategic.
This guide walks you through the top tips to help your offer rise to the top, even in a bidding war.
📷 Visual Aid Suggestion: Sold sign outside a home, happy buyer couple, agent reviewing multiple offers at a desk.
✅ 1. Get Fully Pre-Approved (Not Just Pre-Qualified)
A full pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and financially ready. Work with a lender who can issue a pre-approval letter with underwriting completed, which can speed up the closing process.
💡 Pro Tip: Include the letter with your offer to show confidence and readiness.
💵 2. Make a Strong First Offer
In a seller’s market, you often don’t get a second chance. Consider offering:
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List price or above (based on market comps)
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A larger earnest money deposit
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A short inspection and financing timeline
💡 Pro Tip: Ask your agent to pull recent sales in the area so you can submit a competitive but smart number.
📝 3. Add a Personalized Touch
A well-crafted buyer letter can make an emotional connection. Share why you love the home and how you envision living there.
💡 Pro Tip: Be sincere but keep it brief—1 to 2 short paragraphs max. Some sellers are moved by personal stories!
🧾 4. Offer Fewer Contingencies
While contingencies protect you as a buyer, in a multiple-offer scenario, sellers prefer clean, simple terms.
Consider:
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Waiving minor repairs
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Shortening due diligence periods
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Removing the home sale contingency if you’re able
💡 Pro Tip: Never waive contingencies without consulting your agent and understanding the risks.
📅 5. Be Flexible With Timing
If the seller needs extra time to move, consider offering a free lease-back period or a closing timeline that works for them.
💡 Pro Tip: Your agent can contact the listing agent to learn the seller’s ideal timing and structure your offer accordingly.
🎯 6. Work With a Skilled Agent
An experienced buyer’s agent knows how to:
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Strategically position your offer
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Communicate proactively with the seller’s agent
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Navigate backup offers or bidding wars
💡 Pro Tip: Choose an agent who’s familiar with your target neighborhood and has a proven record in competitive situations.
💬 Final Thought: Winning Takes Strategy
It’s not always the highest offer that wins—it’s the strongest, smartest, and most aligned with the seller’s needs. With the right prep and a skilled agent in your corner, you can confidently compete in Utah’s fast-moving market.
📞 Ready to make your move? Book a Call with Move Utah Real Estate and we’ll help you win your next home—no matter how competitive the market gets!
