01
Ask what supports the purchase price
Ask the buyer which comparable properties, repair assumptions, and anticipated ownership costs informed the offer. Distinguish a preliminary range from a written offer that specifies inspections and other conditions. If an online estimate differs, compare its assumptions about condition, size, and property type before deciding one number is authoritative. A buyer's target margin and risk tolerance can affect the offer; it is not an independent appraisal of your home's maximum market value.
02
Compare the amount and the conditions together
Use the same rows for each offer: price, proposed seller-paid expenses, payoff estimates, inspection period, deposit, assignment language, closing date, and possession. Ask for any missing answer in writing. A higher headline number with unresolved conditions may be less suitable for your plans, but speed also has a cost if it means accepting less. Request a local listing estimate and a preliminary escrow proceeds estimate to compare realistic alternatives without assuming the cash price is the amount you receive.