You have found your dream home, calculated numbers, and submitted your offer. Now you’re stuck in a waiting game. That’s nervous, isn’t it? You are always checking your phone, wondering: How long should the seller respond to the offer?
Well, here’s the scoop. Sellers do not need to reply at specific deadlines, but in most cases they will respond within 24-72 hours. That window is pretty standard in real estate, but there is a little more.
Whether you’re buying your first home in Buffalo, New York or a condo in Columbus, Ohio, it will help you know what to expect after submitting your offer. After you hit “submit” with that offer, then break down how you’re one step ahead in the home buying process.
How long should a seller respond to the offer?
In most cases, there is no legal deadline for when a seller responds to an offer, but a typical seller’s response time is 24-72 hours.
The exact time frame is often dependent on the offer contract. Many standard purchase agreements include the expiration date of the offer. This usually takes 48 hours from submission. That is, the seller must accept, reject or refute until then.
>>Read how to make an offer at home
Set offer time limits
Here’s the catch: If the offer does not specify a response deadline, the seller can take it as long as technically necessary.
Include a clear offer expiration date in your offer will help you maintain control, keep the process running, and avoid ghosts from the seller’s side. However, timing is important. A deadline too short may frustrate the seller, but something too long can invite competing offers.
Work with real estate agents to find out whether state or local laws allow contractual time limits and how best to include them in the terms and conditions that provide them.
Why does the seller not respond?
If your offer is not answered, it doesn’t always mean you’re not on a running. Let’s take a look at some common reasons why sellers can take longer to respond.
1. The offer was too low
If your offer falls far below the asking price, the seller may feel it’s not even worth the counter. Some sellers don’t want to negotiate from what is considered a lowball offer.
2. They received multiple offers
In a competitive housing market, sellers can get multiple offers per weekend. If another buyer offers more or better terms (like all cash or exempt contingencies), they can prioritize that transaction.
3. The offer did not meet their needs
It’s easy to blame the price if the seller doesn’t respond, but in many cases it’s a lacking term. Sellers have goals, timelines and preferences that shape decisions. If your offers don’t suit those needs, they may pass without countering.
This is what sellers often look for:
Quick Closing Timeline: Sellers who need to move fast prefer buyers who can close within 30 days. A long escrow period can be turned off. Less contingency: Too many contingencies (testing, valuation, funding) can make the transaction seem risky. A simpler and cleaner offer usually wins. Strong Serious Deposit: High Deposit Signals that you are serious and financially committed. It gives sellers more peace of mind. Flexible Moveout or Rental Back Options: Sellers who have not secured their next home can appreciate the extra time they will be temporarily moving or staying after closing. Proof of Funding or Cash Offer: Pre-approval or Proof of Funds will reassure sellers you can follow and the transaction will not collapse.
4. Rely on “buyer love letters”
Writing a personal letter (aka buyer’s love letter) to a seller might seem like a thoughtful touch, but this strategy has become favorable. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) warns that these letters could reveal personal details such as race, religion, or family status that could lead to unintended, fair housing violations. As a result, many agents have blocked current use, and some sellers may even reject offers that includes one.
Should the seller respond to your offer?
Not at all. Sellers are not legally obligated to respond to offers. Especially if they are not impressed by the conditions. Many people at least refute, but some sellers choose to stay silent if they are not interested or are waiting for a better deal.
That silence doesn’t necessarily mean that your offer is bad. That may not be “one” for them.
What happens after I submit my offer?
Understanding the process after the offer is in place can take away some of the mysteries. Below is a brief overview of how it usually unfolds.
Step 1: You (or your agent) will send you a formal offer with price and terms. Step 2: Sellers consider the offer, consult with the agent and weigh other possibilities. Step 3: Sellers can accept, reject, or counter it. Step 4: After the deadline stated on the contract, the offer will expire. Or stay open. Step 5: If you are rejected or have not responded, you can modify your offer or proceed.
It is normal to feel anxious during this period. But agent communication can make all the difference.
Read >>How long does it take to buy a house?
What if there is no response from the seller?
It’s hard to wait for a reply that never comes. However, there are productive steps.
1. Please hold on
Some sellers will need extra time to discuss offers, consult with agents, and consider other options. Giving them a little breathing room can still cause a response, especially if the market is slow.
2. Have your agent follow up
Sometimes a gentle nudge can rekindle the conversation. Agents can contact the seller’s agent to ask for updates.
3. Reevaluate and correct the offer
If silence continues, it may be worth reassessing your offer. Can we improve conditions, raise prices slightly, or shorten the closure period?
4. Start looking elsewhere
Don’t let your house hunt. You can always continue shopping while you wait for an offer to be answered. And it may give you a backup plan.
5. I know when to let go
If the seller’s silence is dragged past the deadline for your offer, the transaction is off the table. You can leave freely, and sometimes, that’s the best move.
6. Be careful when creating multiple offers
In a competitive market, submitting offers at multiple homes at once may be appealing, but you need to be aware. If multiple people are accepted, there is a risk of losing serious money or facing legal complications. Always discuss this strategy with your agent first.
Don’t let silence get on track
Knowing how long a seller must respond will help you decide whether to wait, modify your offer, or move on. Your real estate agent is your best ally and will help you create powerful offers, communicate with the seller, and navigate the waiting period.
Remember, the home buying process is emotional and unpredictable, but knowledge is power. Lack of responses does not always mean rejection. Sometimes it’s just part of the process.
