Short Answer
When a seller counters your offer, you have three options: accept the counteroffer as written, submit a counter to the counteroffer (a second counter), or walk away. Before responding, review the changed terms carefully, including price, closing date, contingencies, and any new conditions. Consult with your agent to understand the seller's motivation and whether the counteroffer is reasonable based on market conditions and comparable sales.
A counteroffer is a normal part of real estate negotiations. When the seller counters, they are signaling that they are motivated to sell but want different terms. Common counteroffer changes include a higher price, a different closing date, changes to contingencies, or requests for specific appliances or fixtures to remain. Before you respond, work with your agent to evaluate the counteroffer in context. Is the price still within your budget? Do the terms still work for your timeline? Is the seller asking for reasonable concessions? You can accept the counteroffer, which creates a binding contract. You can make a second counter, which continues the negotiation. Or you can walk away if the terms no longer work for you. Each counteroffer resets the negotiation, and either party can walk away at any point before a contract is signed. Keep your emotions in check and focus on your goals and budget.
Bob's Advice
Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent
A counteroffer is a sign of progress. The seller is interested, they just want different terms. I have negotiated hundreds of counteroffers, and the key is staying calm and strategic. I will help you understand what the seller is really asking for and whether their counter is reasonable. Sometimes the best move is to meet in the middle. Other times, holding firm is the right call. I will give you my honest read of the situation and let you make the final decision.
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