How to answer when potential buyers ask if I've had any offers

bitsandpieces

I'm selling my place atm, and a few of those viewing have asked if I have had other offers. What's the appropriate way to answer this question? I've had one offer, but am hoping to get a better price: should I just say as much?

Probably being naive, but I didn't ask this when I was buying...and not really sure what type of answer would be appropriate...

hostman

Be honest ...

waynehayes

Agree. Our prospective (fingers crossed) buyer asked me if there had been any offers. There had, and I told him so, but not the amount. He phoned half an hour later with an offer of his own.

bitsandpieces

Sounds sensible, thanks. So I'll just say I've got an offer, but hoping for a better price...

Blacksheep1979

I wouldn't go into that much detail 'I've been approached and am weighing up my options' doesn't sound like you've outright shot down the other offer and may stop anyone else who is considering dawdling

olias

I wouldn't even say your looking for a better price, just say there has been quite a bit of interest and you are considering an offer, and leave it at that.

Olias

missile

If you are concerned about that question, best to prepare for more challenging ones like "what is the minimum price you will accept?" People can be very rude and I would suggest you refer all such questions to your agent. Better still if you are sensitive let the agent show them round and answer all the questions, after all you are paying for a service.

bitsandpieces

Yes - more specific questions about price etc. I have been telling them to phone the EA. Wasn't sure about a question about offers, though...

mchale

I've said in the past i've had a acceptable offer, but the other party has to sell their own home and i am waiting to see if anyone is in a better poistion to proceed

mlz1413

The offer you had - were they in a position to proceed?
If not you could use that as a reply. Say something like:
The interest I have had so far were not in a position to proceed.

Dinah93

I'd make it clear if the other offer is one you are proceeding with. I wouldn't put in an offer on a property I thought someone else was proceeding on. I know it's not the best way to get the dream house, but I couldn't cause that kind of upset and upheaval to someone else.