How to make an Offer to Purchase

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Typically, when homebuyers are ready to make an offer, they meet with the real estate agent and complete the Offer to Purchase form together. You may also want to write your offer with the help of an attorney. Although you can prepare an offer yourself, it is not recommended.

An Offer to Purchase includes detailed, complex information. If you try to write an offer by yourself, you may make mistakes, omit or include items that would put you at a disadvantage relative to other buyers or trap yourself into an agreement that is not in your best interest.

Review the Sample Offer to Purchase (.pdf) carefully to see how it is worded. Do not use this sample when you prepare your Offer to Purchase because the legal requirements may differ in your state.

When you are ready to make an offer, get a copy of your state’s form from the real estate agent and look it over carefully. Have either the real estate agent or an attorney thoroughly explain every item on the form to you so that you understand exactly what you are committing to before you actually write an offer.