How much below asking price should I offer?
There is no standard percentage. Start from what comparable homes actually sold for, adjusted for condition, not from the asking price. If the asking price is above that evidence, or the home has sat on the market, an offer below asking is reasonable; if it is priced at or below the comparables and drawing interest, offering below asking risks losing it.
What tells you how much room there is
| Signal | More room to offer below | Less room |
|---|---|---|
| Asking price vs comparable sales | Asking is above recent comparable sales | Asking is at or below them |
| Days on market | Well above typical for the area | Just listed |
| Price history | Price reductions or a relisting | No reductions |
| Condition | Repairs the price does not reflect | Updated, move-in ready |
| Competition | Few showings, no other offers | Multiple offers or an offer deadline |
How to build your number
- Find three to five comparable sales from the last few months - similar size, age, condition and location.
- Adjust for differences: a dated kitchen, a missing bedroom or a smaller lot moves the value.
- Subtract the cost of repairs the price does not already reflect.
- Set your offer between that value and the most you would pay, depending on competition.
- Decide your walk-away price before you negotiate.
Terms can matter as much as price
A slightly lower offer with a larger earnest money deposit, a quick close or flexible move-out can beat a higher offer with more contingencies. A seller credit toward closing costs can also be worth more to you than the same amount off the price, within your loan program's limits.
An offer below the appraised value does not cause a problem with the lender; an offer above it can leave you covering an appraisal gap in cash.
Frequently asked questions
Is it rude to offer below asking price?
No. An offer backed by comparable sales and the home's condition is a normal part of negotiating, and the seller can counter.
Should I offer below asking in a seller's market?
Usually not on a well-priced home. When homes receive multiple offers, a low offer is often ignored; save below-asking offers for homes the evidence says are overpriced.
How do days on market affect my offer?
A home that has sat well beyond the local norm often gives you more room, especially after price reductions. A new listing usually gives you less.
Calculators and guides
Recommended next step
See three offer scenarios for a specific home based on its value and competition.
Build conservative, balanced and competitive offers →Sources and review
No regulator defines these terms; the page follows common industry practice and labels rules of thumb as such.
Where this applies: United States. Offer practice, timelines and contract terms vary by state, market and loan program; this is general information, not legal or financial advice.
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Worked examples use illustrative round numbers, not current market data. Rates, limits and program rules change - confirm current figures with your lender or a qualified professional.
General educational information, not financial, legal, tax or real estate advice. Rules vary by loan program, transaction and location - verify important decisions with qualified professionals.