Making an offer for property is an art, use these templates to make compelling offers
Here are 4 proven offer templates tailored to different scenarios (private treaty, auction pre-offers, competitive bidding, and off-the-plan purchases). These include strategies to maximize acceptance rates while protecting your interests:
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1. Private Treaty Offer (Conditional)
Scenario: Making a formal written offer for a listed property.
Strategy: Show seriousness with flexibility.
Template:
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Subject: Formal Offer for [Property Address] – [Your Name]
Dear [Agent/Seller],
I am writing to formally offer [Amount in AUD] for [Property Address], subject to the following conditions:
1. Finance approval: Approval by [Bank/Lender] within [7–14 days].
2. Building & pest inspection: Satisfactory report within [5–7 days].
3. Settlement period: [30–60 days] (adjust to seller’s preference).
This offer is valid until [Date/Time]. I have attached proof of pre-approval from [Lender] and am ready to sign the contract immediately upon acceptance.
I am a serious buyer with no chain or delays. Please let me know if we can finalize terms promptly.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Contact Details]
[Optional: Attach pre-approval letter]
Key Tips:
- Use a specific amount (e.g., $752,500 instead of $750,000) to stand out.
- Shorten deadlines to pressure the seller (e.g., “Offer expires in 24 hours”).
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2. Pre-Auction Offer (Unconditional)
Scenario: Persuading a seller to accept an offer before auction.
Strategy: Offer speed and certainty.
Template:
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Subject: Pre-Auction Offer – [Your Name] – [Property Address]
Dear [Agent],
To avoid auction uncertainty, I am prepared to purchase [Property Address] unconditionally for [Amount in AUD], with:
- 10% deposit payable immediately upon contract signing.
- Settlement in [21–30 days] (or your seller’s preferred timeframe).
- No cooling-off period (waived as per auction terms).
This offer is available until [Date/Time]. I am ready to exchange contracts today.
Please advise if this aligns with your seller’s expectations.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Contact Details]
Key Tips:
- Highlight “unconditional” to appeal to sellers wanting certainty.
- Use urgency: “Offer expires 24 hours before auction day.”
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3. Competitive Bid (Personalized Appeal)
Scenario: Multiple buyers are interested; stand out with empathy.
Strategy: Connect emotionally + highlight reliability.
Template:
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Subject: Offer for [Property Address] – [Your Name] – Ready to Move Fast
Dear [Agent/Seller],
My partner and I have fallen in love with [Property Address] and are eager to make it our family home. We understand this is a competitive process, so we’re offering:
- Price: [Amount in AUD] (above the guide price).
- Flexible settlement: Adjustable to your timeline.
- No delays: Pre-approval from [Lender] is attached, and we’ve already completed building/pest inspections (available on request).
We’re committed to a smooth, stress-free sale and would be honored to steward this property.
Please let me know if there’s anything we can do to make this work.
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Phone Number]
Key Tips:
- Mention personal details (e.g., “We plan to raise our children here”).
- Attach proof of funds/inspections to reduce seller risk.
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4. Off-the-Plan Offer (Flexible Terms)
Scenario: Negotiating with a developer for a new build.
Strategy: Trade price for upgrades or delayed settlement.
Template:
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Subject: Offer for Lot [X] at [Development Name] – [Your Name]
Dear [Agent/Developer],
I am interested in purchasing Lot [X] at [Development Name] and propose the following terms:
- Purchase price: [Amount in AUD](subject to final plans approval).
- Inclusions: Requesting [upgraded flooring/kitchen appliances/etc.] at no extra cost.
- Extended sunset clause: Settlement flexibility of [6–12 months] if construction is delayed.
- Deposit structure: 5% now, 5% on completion (vs. standard 10% upfront).
I am ready to proceed immediately if these terms are acceptable.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Contact Details]
Key Tips:
- Developers often prefer buyers who won’t delay projects. Highlight flexibility.
- Negotiate inclusions instead of price cuts (saves developer margin).
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Critical Tactics for Success
1. Personalize: Add a handwritten note or mention why you love the property.
2. Remove roadblocks: Waive minor conditions (e.g., “subject to curtains”) if safe.
3. Act fast: Submit offers immediately after inspections to capitalize on urgency.
4. Use proof: Attach pre-approval, deposit receipts, or solicitor details.
Always consult your conveyancer before signing anything! Laws vary by state (e.g., cooling-off periods in NSW/QLD vs. none at auctions).
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