Respond without giving away your leverage
Wondering if you should counter a low offer or just reject it? In Newcastle, WA, I decide that based on how close the offer is to the recent closing lane and whether the buyer is credible. One number to respect from recent closed activity is $1,412,500 as a typical sold price in the most recent month shown.
That matters because buyers are not negotiating in a vacuum. Over the last three months of closed activity, prices ranged from $405,000 to $2,100,000, so a low offer might simply be a mismatch of property type or size rather than a serious attempt at your specific home. The practical impact is that you need a firm reference point for what a reasonable buyer would pay. A typical closed pace was $546 per square foot in the last three months summary, so if the offer implies a number far below that without a clear reason, I treat it as a fishing expedition. Action steps I recommend Counter with clean, simple terms and a number you can defend using the recent per-square-foot anchor and the closest closed matches, rather than arguing feelings. If the buyer is not close, do not negotiate against yourself require proof of funds or strong financing and ask them to come up to a credible range before you spend cycles. Some metrics were not reported for this period. Days-to-close and list-to-sold percentages were Not reported, so I focus on controlling what you can pricing clarity, showing access, and negotiating from documented comparables instead of assumptions.
About Mike Rudnev
Mike Rudnev is a licensed Real Estate Professional affiliated with eXp Realty, specializing in the Newcastle market. With a focus on strategic marketing and deep local knowledge, Mike Rudnev provides clients with expert guidance in navigating complex real estate transactions. View full profile →
