How To Make An Offer On a House
Making an offer on a house is an exciting but potentially daunting prospect, especially if it’s your first home.
How to Make an Offer on a House in Flitwick, Ampthill, Barton-le-Clay, or LutonLove Homes’ Step-by-Step Guide for Buyers in Bedfordshire
Making an offer on a house is one of the most exciting steps in the homebuying process — but it can also feel daunting, especially if it’s your first property. At Love Homes, we’re often asked, “How do I make an offer on a house?” This guide will walk you through the process and give you the best chance of securing your dream home in Flitwick, Ampthill, Barton-le-Clay, or Luton.
1. Work Out Your Budget
Before you even start viewing properties, it’s essential to know exactly how much you can afford. Don’t rely on vague estimates — calculate your budget based on savings, income, and mortgage eligibility.
✅ Consider getting a Mortgage in Principle (MIP) before making an offer.
✅ Speak with a mortgage advisor to understand your borrowing limits.
✅ Being financially prepared shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and can improve your chances of having your offer accepted.
2. Research the Local Area
Knowing the local market is key to making a competitive offer. Look at recent sales in Flitwick, Ampthill, Barton-le-Clay, and Luton to get a sense of property values and pricing trends.
Tip: Our team at Love Homes are expert negotiators and can advise you on a fair offer based on current Bedfordshire market conditions.
Preparation is essential — a well-researched offer is more likely to be taken seriously by the seller.
3. Stay Confident During Viewings
When you find a property you love, it’s important to show genuine interest without revealing too much enthusiasm.
✅ Ask detailed questions about the property and its features.
✅ Take notes on condition, layout, and any potential improvements.
✅ Keep a calm and measured approach — this can strengthen your negotiating position.
Showing you’re serious but composed can make all the difference when competing with other buyers.
4. Making Your Offer
Once you’ve done your homework and found your ideal home, it’s time to make an offer.
Call the estate agent to provide your offer verbally. They are legally obliged to inform the seller.
Follow up in writing (email is fine) to avoid any confusion.
Highlight your strengths as a buyer:
First-time buyers are often chain-free.
Cash buyers can complete quickly.
Mortgage-in-principle approvals demonstrate readiness.
Explain your motivation if appropriate — sometimes personal touches can help if you’re competing with another buyer.
5. Be Prepared to Negotiate
It’s common for sellers to respond with a counter-offer. Negotiations are usually handled through the estate agent.
⚖️ Offer fairly and reasonably — avoid making a lowball offer that could be rejected outright.
📊 Research the market and the property’s history to understand where there may be room to negotiate.
💪 Highlight your advantages to strengthen your position in the negotiation.
6. How Much Should You Offer?
There’s no one-size-fits-all rule. Your offer depends on:
Interest in the property: Highly sought-after homes may require full asking price or more.
Time on market: Properties that have been listed for a while may allow for negotiation.
Your buying strength: First-time buyers with a mortgage in principle or cash buyers often have more leverage.
Always ensure your offer is fair — it helps maintain goodwill and increases the chance of acceptance.
Get Expert Help from Love Homes
Buying a property in Flitwick, Ampthill, Barton-le-Clay, or Luton doesn’t have to be stressful. At Love Homes, we guide buyers through every step — from viewing to negotiating and completing the sale.
📞 Call us today on 01525 713111
📧 Email hello@lovehomes.uk
Thinking of selling or curious about your property’s value? Book a free valuation with Love Homes and discover what your home could be worth in today’s Bedfordshire market.