Comparing Multiple Offers for Your House in Portland

Selling your house is a big decision, and when multiple offers start coming in, it can feel like both a blessing and a challenge. While most sellers in Portland hope for a bidding war, having several offers to review can be overwhelming. Each buyer may present different terms, conditions, and timelines—and the highest price on paper isn’t always the smartest choice.

At Better Off Home Buyers, we’ve worked with homeowners across Portland Oregon, and one thing is clear: the “best” offer balances strong financial terms with a realistic chance of closing. Here’s what you should pay close attention to when comparing multiple offers for your house.

1. Purchase Price vs. Net Proceeds

Yes, the purchase price matters, but it’s not the whole story. Some offers may look attractive up front but include repair requests, seller concessions, or extra costs that reduce your net profit. For example, a slightly lower cash offer with no repair demands might leave you with more money than a higher financed offer full of contingencies. Always calculate your net proceeds—not just the headline number.

2. Contingencies and Escape Clauses

A contingency is essentially a buyer’s safety net, and too many of them can make your deal shaky. Common ones include home inspections, financing approval, and appraisals. The fewer contingencies attached, the more secure the deal is for you. When reviewing offers, ask yourself: does this buyer have too many “outs” that could derail the sale?

3. Earnest Money Deposit Shows Commitment

Buyers who put down a larger earnest money deposit are signaling that they’re serious about the purchase. This money goes into escrow and is applied toward the purchase price at closing. If a buyer is only putting down a minimal amount, they may not be as motivated to stick with the deal.

4. Closing Date and Timing

Timing can be just as important as money. Some buyers may want to close quickly, which is ideal if you need to move fast. Others may ask for extra time to secure financing or complete their move. If you need flexibility—say, more time before relocating—an offer with a delayed closing might be more appealing than a faster one.

5. Financing Strength

A buyer paying in cash typically has the smoothest and most reliable path to closing. For buyers using financing, the type of loan matters. Conventional loans are usually more straightforward than FHA or VA loans, which come with stricter requirements. Ask for pre-approval letters to gauge how solid the financing really is.

6. Who Pays the Closing Costs

Closing costs can add up to thousands of dollars. Depending on the offer, the buyer may ask you to cover certain fees, or they may take on the bulk of the expenses themselves. Understanding how costs are divided can impact how much you actually walk away with after the sale.

7. Buyer Motivation and Reliability

A motivated buyer—whether they’re relocating for work, upsizing for family, or investing in property—tends to be more flexible and committed. On the flip side, buyers with no urgency may be more likely to back out. In addition, consider a buyer’s track record if you or your agent know it; a buyer who has walked away from deals before might be a red flag.

8. Overall Offer Terms

At the end of the day, you need to look at the entire package: price, contingencies, deposit, timeline, and the buyer’s seriousness. Rarely will one offer check every single box, so the goal is to weigh the pros and cons and choose the one that best aligns with your financial goals and moving plans.

Get Expert Help in Portland

Deciding between multiple offers doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. At Better Off Home Buyers, we guide homeowners in Portland Oregon through the decision-making process so they feel confident choosing the right buyer. Whether you’re considering cash buyers, financed buyers, or a mix of both, we’ll help you identify the offer that makes the most sense for your situation.

If you’d like expert guidance while reviewing your offers—or if you want to explore a direct, no-hassle sale—give us a call at (888) 827-0889 . We’ll make sure you know your options and help you move forward with confidence.