04/24/2026
Most agents write offers like they’re throwing darts blindfolded. They guess at price, hope for the best, then act shocked when their buyers lose to eight other offers.
Here’s what I do differently: I call the listing agent first—not to check status. I call to gather intel that wins offers.
Here’s my exact three-minute script:
“Hi Jane, Amanda here with RE/MAX. I’ve got a qualified buyer for 123 Main Street. Quick question—what’s most important to your seller: price, timeline, or terms?”
Here’s what I’ve discovered:
80% of the time, the seller needs to close by a specific date (not in the MLS).
They’re worried about buyer financing.
They have a backup offer concern nobody knows about.
There’s a repair issue they’re afraid buyers will demand.
This intel lets me craft offers that win.
While other agents throw random numbers at the wall, I’m writing offers that solve the seller’s actual problem.
Bottom line: stop guessing—start gathering intel.
The next buyer offer you write, make that call first. Ask what matters most to the seller, then write an offer that solves their problem.
If you aren’t an agent, ask yours if they know this information before you make an offer.
