Once you’ve found the home you want, the next step is where strategy really matters — making the offer. This is where having a Realtor who actually knows the market can save you money, stress, and time. I’ll help you write an offer that’s competitive for the seller but still smart for you.

Making an Offer

When we write your offer, I look at three things: recent sold comps, how long the home has been on the market, and current competition (are there other offers?). From there we decide whether to come in strong, come in at ask, or leave room to negotiate. The goal is simple: get you the house without overpaying.

I’ll show you the market data that supports the offer — recent sales in Mission/McAllen/Edinburg, price per square foot, days on market — so when we submit, we don’t just “throw out a number.” That makes your offer look stronger and more professional to the listing agent. From there, I handle the back-and-forth. You don’t have to guess what to say — I negotiate for you. If we need seller concessions, closing cost help, repairs, or a home warranty, I’ll write it in. If it’s a multiple-offer situation, I’ll tell you what levers we can pull (option period, earnest money, closing date, appraisal language) to make your offer stand out.

The Home Inspection

After the offer is accepted, we go into the option period / inspection period. This is one of the most important parts of the whole transaction. I’ll recommend local, reputable inspectors that I trust. You’ll get a full written report — roof, AC, foundation (as much as they can see), plumbing, electrical, and safety items. Then I help you read it, not freak out over normal maintenance items, and decide what’s actually worth asking the seller to fix. Some buyers think, “I’ll skip the inspection to save money.” Bro, don’t do that 🙅‍♂️ — an inspection can save you thousands. If we find something major, we can renegotiate, ask for repairs, ask for credit, or in some cases walk away and protect your earnest money. My job is to protect you, not push you through a bad deal.

Understanding Appraisals and Financing

Once you’re past inspection, the lender orders the appraisal. That’s the bank’s way of saying, “Is this house really worth what you’re paying?” If the appraisal comes in at value — great, we keep moving. If it comes in low, that’s when you want an agent who knows how to respond. I can send the appraiser additional comps, point out upgrades, or talk to the listing agent about adjusting the price or splitting the difference. There are ways to solve appraisal gaps, but you shouldn’t try to do it alone. On the financing side, I can walk you through different loan types (FHA, Conventional, VA, USDA if applicable in your area) and what that means for your offer. Sometimes the strongest offer isn’t the highest price — it’s the one that looks most solid to the seller (good lender, fast close, clean terms).

Why It Helps to Have a Realtor in This Phase

This middle part of the transaction — offer ➜ inspection ➜ appraisal ➜ financing — is where most deals fall apart. That’s why I stay close to the file and keep you updated.

• I help you write a strong but smart offer
• I negotiate repairs or credits after inspection
• I communicate with the lender and listing agent so nothing stalls
• I protect your timelines so you don’t lose earnest money

Bottom line: buying a home doesn’t have to be confusing. When you’ve got someone watching the contract dates, talking to title, and negotiating on your behalf, you can actually enjoy the process. Ready to make an offer on a home in Mission, McAllen, or Edinburg? I can help you price it right, structure it right, and get it accepted.