1. How to Choose Between Multiple Buyers When Selling in DFW
   

By Steven J. Thomas

Direct Answer

When you receive multiple offers on your Dallas–Fort Worth home, the best choice isn’t always the highest price. The strongest offer balances price, financing, timing, and certainty — ensuring your sale actually closes smoothly and profitably.

1. Evaluate the Strength of the Financing

Look beyond the offer price. The buyer’s financing type often determines how smoothly the deal will close.

Here’s what to consider:

• Cash offers: Close fastest and carry the least risk.

• Conventional loans: Reliable if the buyer is well-qualified.

• FHA/VA loans: Great programs but may involve stricter appraisals or repair requests.

💡 Tip: A pre-approval from a reputable lender is more valuable than a quick online pre-qualification.

2. Compare Contingencies and Timelines

Contingencies protect the buyer — but too many can delay or derail your sale.

Review each offer’s:

• Inspection period: Shorter is better (5–7 days ideal).

• Financing contingency: Ensures the buyer’s loan is secured.

• Appraisal contingency: May affect your net if the appraisal comes in low.

• Closing timeline: A 25–35 day window is common for financed offers.

🏡 Pro Tip: A buyer who offers flexibility on your move-out date can be worth more than one offering a few thousand extra.

3. Consider Earnest Money and Option Fees

Serious buyers show it with earnest money deposits and option fees.

• Earnest money (usually 1–3% of the offer price) demonstrates commitment.

• Option fees (typically $100–$500) give the buyer a short inspection period.

The higher the earnest money and shorter the option period, the more confident the buyer likely is.

4. Assess the Buyer’s Motivation

Ask: Why does this buyer want your home?

A local family ready to move immediately is more predictable than an out-of-state buyer with a contingency sale. Motivated buyers communicate clearly, respond quickly, and stay engaged through the process.

📋 Tool: Get Your Home Seller Score — see how your listing performs with today’s DFW buyers.

5. Don’t Ignore Appraisal and Repair Risks

In a competitive market, some buyers include appraisal gap coverage or agree to purchase as-is.

This can protect you if the appraisal comes in lower than the contract price or if you prefer not to make post-inspection repairs.

🎯 Best Offers: Cash or well-qualified conventional buyers with limited contingencies and clear proof of funds.

6. Run a Net Sheet for Each Offer

A higher offer doesn’t always mean a higher payout.

Your agent should calculate a net sheet comparing:

• Sale price

• Closing costs

• Concessions

• Repair credits

• HOA or title fees

This gives you a true side-by-side look at what you’ll take home after closing.

📊 Tip: I always prepare a clear net comparison spreadsheet for sellers before recommending an offer.

7. Think Long-Term, Not Just Immediate

If you’re selling and buying new, the timing of your sale matters as much as the number on the contract.

A buyer who can match your new construction completion date — or agree to a short rent-back — can give you a smoother transition and less stress.

🏘️ Explore flexible programs: Home Selling Options

Conclusion

When you’re weighing multiple offers, the goal isn’t just to pick the highest number — it’s to choose the most reliable and strategic buyer for your goals.

As a broker and loan officer, I help sellers analyze every offer from both sides — financial and logistical — so you walk away with confidence and clarity.

📈 Get Your Home Seller Score
📅 Book a Home Goals Consultation

Key Takeaways

• Highest offer ≠ best offer — look for certainty and terms.

• Review financing, contingencies, and earnest money.

• Run a net sheet to see real proceeds.

• Choose the buyer that fits your timing and move goals.