Selling a property is one of the most significant financial transactions many of us will face. It’s exciting, no doubt, but it can also be an emotional rollercoaster. Among the most frustrating situations sellers encounter? Receiving a lowball offer. You know the kind—an offer so far below your asking price that it feels like an insult.

Take a deep breath. A lowball offer doesn’t have to derail your selling experience. In fact, with the right approach, you can handle it professionally, turn it into an opportunity, and maybe even walk away with a better deal. Here’s how.

1. Don’t Take It Personally

The first (and perhaps hardest) part of handling a lowball offer is separating your emotions from the transaction. Your home likely holds significant memories, and you’ve spent time, money, and effort preparing it for sale. A lowball offer can feel disrespectful or undervaluing. But remember, buyers often start low to test the waters. It’s just business—not a critique of your property or your decisions.

How to Stay Calm

  • Pause before reacting. Take a few moments (or hours) to process the offer instead of responding emotionally.
  • Remind yourself that the buyer’s goal is to save money, not to offend you.
  • Shift your mindset from rejection to opportunity. Their offer opens the door to negotiation.

Pro Tip: Sellers who respond calmly and professionally have a better shot at keeping the conversation alive, which increases the chances of reaching a deal.

2. Evaluate the Offer Objectively

Before you reject the offer out of hand, take a closer look. Is this truly a “lowball” offer, or is it simply lower than you hoped for? Market conditions and property specifics play a big role in determining whether an offer is reasonable.

Steps to Objectively Evaluate

  1. Compare to the Market:
    • Look at comparable sales (comps) in your area. What did similar homes recently sell for? If your asking price is significantly higher than the market average, their offer might not be as lowball as it seems.
  2. Review Your Asking Price:
    • Are you priced correctly based on market trends, or did you overestimate the value of your property?
  3. Consider the Buyer’s Situation:
    • Is this offer coming with conditions, such as cash payment or a quick close, that could make it more appealing?

By evaluating the offer based on data, rather than emotions, you’ll have a clearer sense of whether it warrants further negotiation.

3. Respond Instead of Ignoring

Your gut reaction may be to reject a lowball offer outright, but ignoring it entirely can close off a potential deal. By countering or discussing the offer, you keep the buyer engaged and signal your willingness to negotiate.

How to Respond

  • Craft a Counteroffer:
    • Respond with a reasonable yet firm counteroffer that signals you value your property’s worth. For instance, if their offer is 25% below your asking price, consider countering with a number closer to 5-10% below your original price.
  • Reiterate the Value of Your Home:
    • Politely highlight upgrades, amenities, and market comparisons that justify your asking price. Buyers may not have considered these points initially.
  • Ask Questions:
    • If the offer feels extremely low, ask the buyer to share their reasoning. Are they factoring in repairs or other costs you may not be aware of?

Pro Tip: Stay professional and respectful in your response, even if the offer feels unreasonable. Buyers are more likely to come up if they feel their offer was taken seriously.

4. Look for Hidden Opportunities

A lowball offer doesn’t necessarily mean the buyer isn’t serious. Sometimes, buyers start low even though they’re willing to pay closer to market value. This is why countering is so important; it opens the door to negotiation and potential compromises.

Opportunities to Explore

  • Flexible Terms:
    • A buyer with limited finances may compensate by offering flexibility, such as waiving contingencies or agreeing to a quick closing. These aspects could save you time and money.
  • Room for Compromise:
    • Maybe the buyer can’t meet your full asking price, but they’re willing to meet halfway or cover closing costs.
  • Uncover the Buyer’s Priorities:
    • Ask questions to find out what matters most to them. For example, if they’re focused on price but not timeline, you could negotiate for a higher price with a longer closing date.

By identifying areas for compromise, you might turn a disappointing initial offer into a deal that works for both parties.

5. Know When to Hold Firm

While flexibility is important, it’s equally essential to recognize when a buyer’s lowball offer simply isn’t a good fit. If their offer is far below market value and there’s no sign they’re willing to negotiate seriously, it could be better to walk away. Holding firm on your price shows that you value your property and won’t settle for less than it’s worth.

Questions to Ask Before Rejecting

  • Have other buyers shown interest or submitted offers?
  • Are market conditions in your favor (e.g., a seller’s market)?
  • Is waiting for another buyer worth the time and effort?

If your home is priced right and you’re confident in its value, walking away from a lowball offer is okay. Just be sure to communicate your reasoning politely to keep the door open in case the buyer decides to come back with a better offer.

6. Keep the Relationship Positive

Even if the negotiation doesn’t work out, maintaining a positive and professional relationship with the buyer is crucial. Buyers often reconsider and improve their offers after initial negotiations. Leaving the conversation on good terms increases the chances they’ll return with a better proposal.

How to Leave the Door Open

  • Politely thank the buyer for their interest, even if you’re rejecting the offer.
  • Indicate you’re open to further discussions if they’re willing to adjust their terms.
  • Avoid harsh or dismissive language that could alienate them.

Pro Tip: Buyers often appreciate respectful communication, which can turn a no into a yes later down the line.