The Trick That Wins Bidding Wars

How to be the "easy" button for sellers

Author

Roger Blankenship
September 16, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes

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Why “Clean Offers” Beat Big Offers

Use This Trick to Win Bidding Wars

In hot markets, speed alone doesn’t win. The pros know that winning a bidding war is about certainty and credibility. Here’s the trick I recommend — and it’s surprisingly simple.

The Trick: Remove Friction

Sellers and listing agents care about one thing: which offer is most likely to close on time without drama. To signal you are that buyer:

  • Submit a clean offer — minimal contingencies, no weird clauses.

  • Shorten inspection periods (but still do your due diligence).

  • Provide proof of funds or pre-approval letter upfront.

  • Be responsive — same-day answers to calls and emails build confidence.

You’re not just competing on price — you’re competing on certainty. A slightly lower offer that looks bulletproof often beats a higher offer full of “ifs.”

Power Move: “When I know I want the house, as-is with no contingencies other than clear title, I will often offer the entire purchase amount as earnest money. THAT gets everyone’s attention.”

Roger Blankenship

Bonus Tactics for Edge Cases

  • Escalation Clauses: Include one with a sensible cap so you don’t wildly overpay.

  • Appraisal Gaps: If you’re confident in your numbers, offer to cover a gap up to a set amount.

  • Personal Note: Controversial, but in tight markets, a brief, professional note to the seller reminding them you are a serious buyer can tilt the decision.

Mindset Adjustment

Stop thinking about “winning” the house — think about helping the seller solve their problem with the least stress. When you become the easy button, you win more deals.

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