The real estate market is blazing hot these days, and vying for a new home in a competitive real estate market can be complicated. If you're looking for a new home in Fairborn, these five tips from our real estate agents can help you find your dream home and quickly seal the deal.

1. Get Preapproved for Financing
   While getting pre-qualified for a loan can be helpful, it is not the same as obtaining a pre-approval for a specific purchase offer. You can increase your chances of getting a home by including a letter from your bank stating that your lender has underwritten your application and it is simply pending property appraisal. When you find the home you want, you can make an offer immediately and avoid the stress of submitting preapproval paperwork while writing an offer.
   
   
2. Work with an Experienced Agent You Can Trust
   Find a seasoned real estate agent who understands the ins and outs of the market where you are buying. If you fall in love with a home and just have to have it, an experienced agent will make the effort to call the listing agent and find out more information about what the seller really wants. Knowing what's most important to the sellers can be the key to creating a winning offer.
   
   
3. Put Forth Your Best Offer
   You may only get one chance to make an offer, so you need to determine what you can afford and make the highest offer you can. You can reinforce your offer by using what's called an escalation clause. An escalation clause is a contract addendum clause that increases the offer price incrementally up to a certain limit if other offers match or top your initial bid. An escalation clause shows the seller that you have strong interest, but it's essential to stay within your budget and walk away if bidding goes beyond your limit.
   
   If the home is already under contract, don't despair. Deals fall through all the time, so ask that your bid be held as a backup offer. The higher bidder may make irrational demands, fail to deliver earnest money or drop out of the deal altogether. Presenting a solid offer as a backup may convince the seller that selling to someone else is the way to go.
   
   
4. Limit Contingencies
   Sellers have the advantage in a bidding war, and they want offers that are simple and concise. Avoid putting in too many contingencies or making too many demands in your offer, such as asking the seller to purchase a home warranty or requesting minor repairs. Including an abundance of these items in your contract will make it more likely that a seller will accept another offer. It's also a good idea to be flexible on the closing date. Depending on the seller's situation, flexibility can make you the front-runner in a multiple-bid scenario.
   
   
5. Write the Seller a Love Letter
   Sometimes tugging on a seller's heartstrings can make your offer stand out. For example, an older couple who is selling a home may see a young family and remember what it was like when they were just starting out. Write a letter explaining why you want the home and how much it would mean to you to get the house. Include photos of your family and pets.

If you are thinking of relocating, there are many lovely homes in Fairborn. Our experienced real estate agents can work to help you get that winning bid. Contact Wright-Patt Realty to learn more about our services and finding the home of your dreams.