How to Handle Lowball Offers Professionally

Lowball offers are common. The key is to respond strategically, not emotionally.

A low offer does not mean the buyer is unserious. It often means they are testing your flexibility.

Here’s how to handle it like a pro.

1️⃣ Don’t Take It Personally

Buyers negotiate based on:

• Market conditions

• Comparable sales

• Budget limits

• Strategy

Stay calm. Emotional reactions weaken negotiating power.

2️⃣ Evaluate Before Reacting

Ask:

• How far below asking is it? 5%? 15%? 25%?

• How long has the property been listed?

• Are there other offers?

• Is the market hot or slow?

In a slow market, even a low offer can be a starting point.

3️⃣ Respond with a Counteroffer

Most of the time, the best move is:

✔ Counter at or near your asking price

✔ Show you are firm but open

✔ Keep the negotiation alive

Silence or rejection can end the deal unnecessarily.

4️⃣ Justify Your Price with Data

Support your counter with:

• Recent comparable sales

• Upgrade documentation

• Strong demand indicators

• Unique property features

Facts shift the conversation from emotion to value.

5️⃣ Adjust Terms Instead of Price

Instead of lowering price, consider:

• Shorter closing timeline

• Limited seller concessions

• Removing certain contingencies

• Flexible move-out date

Sometimes terms matter more than price.

6️⃣ Know When to Walk Away

Walk away if:

• The offer is unrealistic with no willingness to move

• Buyer shows bad faith

• You have stronger prospects

Professional firmness builds respect.