Receiving a lowball offer on your property can sting—especially after you’ve invested time and money getting your home market-ready. But here’s the thing: a low offer isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, with the right strategy, it can be the starting point to a fair deal. Whether you’re listing a condo in downtown Vancouver or a detached home in the Fraser Valley, here’s how to handle lowball offers like a pro and still walk away satisfied.
1. Stay Calm and Keep Emotions in Check
Lowball offers feel personal, but they’re usually not. Buyers often test the waters—especially in a shifting market. The key is to stay calm and avoid shutting down the conversation. A knee-jerk “no” can kill a deal before it even begins.
2. Understand the Buyer’s Motivation
Before responding, try to find out why the buyer submitted a low offer. Are they serious but price-sensitive? Are they comparing your property to others in the area? A good listing agent will ask the buyer’s agent for context. This insight can guide your counteroffer strategy.
3. Know Your Numbers (and Defend Them)
Have your comps ready. If your home is priced right based on recent sales in your neighbourhood, be confident in that. Show data—like pricing for similar homes in the area, recent upgrades, or unique features that justify your asking price. In British Columbia’s competitive market, especially in cities like Burnaby, Surrey, or Kelowna, educated sellers win negotiations.
4. Counter Smart, Not Hard
Instead of rejecting a lowball outright, counter with a number that shows you’re willing to negotiate, but not desperate. This keeps the conversation going and may bring the buyer closer to a reasonable middle ground. If you’re flexible on things like closing dates or minor repairs, use those as negotiating tools to protect your sale price.
5. Highlight Value Beyond Price
Remind buyers of what they’re getting. Proximity to transit, great schools, low strata fees, a move-in ready home—these all add value that may not be obvious in a quick scroll of listings. Your agent can emphasize these during follow-up conversations.
6. Know When to Walk Away
Sometimes, a lowball offer is just that—with no room to move. If you’ve tried negotiating and the buyer won’t budge, don’t be afraid to walk away. The right buyer will come along—especially in BC’s vibrant real estate landscape, where demand remains strong in many regions throughout the year.
Lowball offers are part of the game. How you respond can make the difference between a missed opportunity and a great deal. With the right approach—clear communication, strategic countering, and a solid pricing foundation—you can turn even a shaky offer into a successful sale. And if you’re working with a good agent, you’re not handling it alone.
Want more tips on selling smart in BC? Let’s connect.
