In a competitive condo market, writing a winning offer takes more than just offering the right price. It’s about presenting yourself as a serious, prepared buyer and making your offer as appealing—and easy—as possible for the seller to accept. Whether you’re going after your dream condo or just trying not to lose out, here are 7 ways to make your offer stand out:

1. Get Pre-Approved (Not Just Pre-Qualified)

A pre-approval letter from a trusted lender carries more weight than a basic pre-qualification. It shows the seller that your finances have already been reviewed and that you're ready to close. Bonus points if the lender is well-known and respected in the local market—listing agents often trust lenders they’ve worked with before.

If you are paying all cash, then you will need to show proof of funds such as an account statement or a letter from an accountant. 

Pro move: have your loan officer call the listing agent after your offer has been submitted. 

Need some recommendations? I have a handful of loan officers to recommend that are responsive, professional, knowledgable, and know what to say to a listing agent. 

2. Find Out What Matters Most to the Seller

Not every seller is driven solely by price. I always reach out to the listing agent to ask what the seller needs most—do they want a fast closing? A rent-back? Minimal contingencies? Tailoring your offer to meet those needs can give you a major advantage over other buyers who don’t take the time to ask.

For some sellers, knowing they won't be asked to make any repairs is worth a significant amount. 

Pro move: do a pre-offer home inspection to show the seller you know the condition of the property and won't be asking for repairs. 

3. Write a Clean, Easy-to-Accept Offer

Sellers love simplicity. Submitting a complete, well-organized offer package—signed contract, pre-approval letter, proof of funds, and all required disclosures—shows professionalism and seriousness. Also consider minimizing contingencies or shortening timelines if you're comfortable with the risk. The fewer hoops a seller has to jump through, the more likely they are to say yes.

Pro move: I always write an offer summary highlighting the strengths of the offer and expecting the listing agent to copy and paste my summary in an email to the seller. 

4. Be Strategic with Price (and Consider an Escalation Clause)

In a multiple-offer situation, offering list price may not be enough. I help my clients evaluate the market and suggest a competitive number. If you're worried about overpaying, consider using an escalation clause—this automatically increases your offer up to a set maximum if higher bids come in. Just make sure your cap is one you're truly comfortable with.

Pro move: hold off submitting an escalation clause until you know there is competition. No need to show your hand ahead of time. 

5. Boost Your Earnest Money Deposit

A strong earnest money deposit shows you're serious and financially committed. While the standard amount is often 1–2% of the purchase price, offering more can make your offer stand out—without putting you at extra risk, since the money is held in escrow and credited toward your purchase at closing.

Pro move: Want to show the seller you are really serious? Make the deposit, or a portion of it, non-refundable and written to the seller. 

6. Limit or Waive the Condo Review Period (If You Can)

In condo purchases, buyers usually have the right to review condo documents and void the contract if they find something concerning. But if you've had a chance to review the documents in advance and feel confident in the building, waiving or shortening the condo review period can strengthen your offer.

Keep in mind, the seller is still obligated to correct any condo violations noted in the manager's report even after the review period. 

Pro move: I have condo docs for many buildings that can be reviewed ahead of time. A phone call to the building manager can also shed light on any potential issues. 

7. Avoid Contingencies Based on Selling Another Property

If your ability to buy is tied to selling your current home, that adds risk for the seller. In a hot market, offers with this kind of contingency are often passed over. If possible, consider selling first, using a bridge loan, or securing financing that doesn’t require a home sale. The cleaner your offer, the better your odds.

Pro move: Get the property you are relinquishing under contract with a seller 'home of choice' contingency. 

Bottom Line:
Writing a winning offer isn’t about luck—it’s about preparation, strategy, and making the seller’s choice easy. Work with an experienced agent who knows the local market and can help you put your best foot forward.