What Is a Counteroffer in Real Estate?
A counteroffer in real estate is a buyer or seller’s response to an initial offer that changes one or more terms of the deal. Counteroffers are part of the negotiation process, giving both sides a chance to reach agreement on price, closing date, contingencies, and other key terms.
✅ How Counteroffers Work
- Buyer submits an offer: outlines price, contingencies, and proposed closing timeline.
- Seller responds with a counteroffer: adjusts terms such as price, closing costs, or requested repairs.
- Buyer can accept, decline, or counter again: negotiations continue until both parties reach agreement—or the deal ends.
Tip: Each counteroffer legally rejects the previous offer, and no deal is binding until a new purchase agreement is signed and accepted by both buyer and seller.
🌐 Why Counteroffers Matter
Counteroffers give sellers flexibility and control in negotiations. For FSBO sellers using Brokerless, it’s how you protect your bottom line while still moving toward a deal.
- Negotiate a higher price or more favorable terms
- Shift responsibility for repairs or closing costs
- Clarify contingencies, such as appraisal or financing
📍 Counteroffers for FSBO Sellers
- Stay organized: track changes in writing to avoid disputes.
- Limit contingencies: multiple contingencies weaken offers; counter to reduce them.
- Use a flat fee MLS: with Brokerless listing plans, you’ll receive offers directly and control counteroffers without a full 6% commission.
🧩 Quick Facts About Counteroffers
- Counteroffers must be in writing to be enforceable.
- Deadlines apply: most counteroffers expire if not accepted within a set timeframe.
- Not just about price: terms like inspection timelines, earnest money, and closing dates are just as negotiable.