Video — Agent Secrets - How To Make An Offer On A Home

There is a formal process, and the real estate agent(s) will assist you. The offer will involve:

Price: how much are you offering? Under what conditions?

Time: when do you want to close? Move in?

Financial Terms: How much are you offering in down payment? What financing details might affect the offer?

Contingencies. Does the offer depend on any other events, such as the sale of your existing home?

Earnest Money: what amount are you committing to show that you are in earnest about the purchase?

Deadlines: how long is the offer valid?

An offer will include the complete legal description of the property, and a few other formal details.

Keep in mind, it is "an offer, not a deal." Buyers will frequently provide a counter-offer that changes some of the terms to meet their desired outcome.