Are listing agents faking multiple offers?

by Alessandra Imanabadi

By Alessandra Imanabadi · Nationwide Fine Homes

Do not assume competing offers are invented. But no agent can honestly promise that misrepresentation never happens. Your protection is a supported understanding of value and an offer you can stand behind.

When you are being asked to increase by tens of thousands of dollars, wanting a clear explanation is reasonable.

A multiple counteroffer means the seller is negotiating with more than one buyer

If you receive a Seller Multiple Counter Offer, the seller is telling you in writing that they are countering other buyers. You are being given an opportunity to improve your offer while the seller considers alternatives.

Now the important question is how to compete intelligently—not simply how much more to offer.

Your agent should understand what matters to the seller and examine your complete offer: price, financing, contingencies and timing. Sometimes improving a term can accomplish more than adding money. Sometimes the price needs to increase. And sometimes your agent should tell you that the home no longer makes financial sense at the number required.

You deserve that judgment before deciding how far to go.

Determine value independently

If a home is priced well below relevant sales, several above-asking offers may be entirely plausible.

If it is already priced aggressively, “multiple offers” should not replace the work of understanding what the property warrants.

Your agent’s recommendation should hold together even when the exact competing prices are unknown.

Relationships help the conversation—but do not guarantee the answer

After many years in this business, I know how a number of local agents communicate and prepare their listings.

A professional conversation can clarify the seller’s priorities and concerns. It does not give me access to every offer or permission to promise what the seller will do.

Know the premium you are choosing

Sometimes a home offers something personally difficult to replace. You may knowingly pay beyond what an investment-only calculation would support.

You deserve to understand that distinction before deciding.

I would welcome the opportunity to explain how I separate market value, competition and personal value. You can judge the reasoning for yourself before deciding who you want negotiating beside you.