If you are a buyer in Cardiff, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Vista, or San Marcos, you have probably seen that sometimes it’s tough to buy in a good buyers’ market. There are some great property values out there, but by the time you submit your offer, five other people have submitted theirs, and you may lose out. How can you win in such a competitive market?
Most important, get pre-approved for a loan before you begin searching and writing offers. Sellers and agents only take seriously those buyers who are pre-approved. Spend the time to get pre-approved.
Stay in touch with your agent and be informed of new properties that meet your criteria right when they go on the market. In areas like Cardiff, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, everyone is looking, and you want to be ready to go when the appropriate property comes along.
When you find the house you want, be ready to submit a competitive offer. You don’t have to offer the list price, but don’t submit a “lowball” offer either just to test the waters. Sellers are looking for serious buyers.
Don’t write an offer with lots of contingencies. If you have to sell your home first, try to sell it and then write an offer. Don’t ask for lots of extras–long escrow period, special repairs, etc. Keep it simple.
San Diego’s coastal areas, especially Cardiff, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and Oceanside, are very popular right now. If you want to live there, be prepared to write the best offer when the property you want comes along.