The Right Way to Decline a Real Estate Offer

29 June 2025

Navigating the world of real estate can be both exciting and stressful. Whether you're selling your home or an investment property, receiving an offer is always a big moment. But what happens when that offer doesn’t quite meet your expectations? Declining a real estate offer might seem simple, but there's an art to doing it the right way.

How you handle rejecting an offer can impact future negotiations, your reputation, and even the buyer’s willingness to submit a better proposal. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the proper way to decline a real estate offer while keeping things professional, respectful, and open-ended.

Why You Might Need to Decline a Real Estate Offer

There are several reasons why you might decide not to accept an offer on your property. Some common scenarios include:

- The offer is too low – If the buyer's offer is significantly below your asking price or market value, it might not be a worthwhile deal.
- Unfavorable terms – Sometimes, the terms of the deal (such as contingencies, closing timelines, or financing conditions) don’t align with your needs.
- Multiple offers – If you’re in a seller’s market, you may receive better offers from other buyers.
- Change of heart – Sometimes, sellers have second thoughts. Maybe you’ve decided to stay in your home a bit longer or wait for a better market.

Whatever the reason, rejecting an offer should always be done professionally and courteously.

How to Decline a Real Estate Offer the Right Way

Rejecting an offer doesn’t have to be awkward. Here’s how you can do it gracefully while maintaining a positive relationship with the buyer.

1. Respond in a Timely Manner

No one likes to be left hanging, especially in real estate, where timing is everything. If you’re sure you won’t accept the offer, let the buyer know as soon as possible. Delaying your response could frustrate the buyer and potentially cost you other opportunities.

Generally, it’s best to respond within 24 to 48 hours. Even if you’re waiting on other offers, a quick reply shows professionalism and courtesy.

2. Keep It Professional and Respectful

Regardless of how low or unreasonable the offer may seem, always remain polite. Buyers are making a significant financial commitment, and even if the offer isn’t ideal for you, they’ve likely put thought into it.

Here are a couple of ways you can professionally decline an offer:

- Short and Simple:
> “Thank you for your offer. While we appreciate your interest, we’ve decided to pursue other opportunities at this time.”
- Encouraging Future Offers:
> “We appreciate your offer, but unfortunately, it does not meet our expectations. However, we welcome any revised offers should your terms change.”

Remaining polite leaves the door open for negotiation while avoiding any unnecessary friction.

3. Provide a Reason (If Appropriate)

While you don’t have to explain your decision, offering a brief reason can sometimes be beneficial. This is especially true if the buyer was close but just a bit off the mark.

For example, you could say:
> “Thank you for your offer. Unfortunately, we’ve received stronger offers that align more closely with our expectations.”

This subtly hints that they may need to increase their offer if they truly want the property.

However, if the offer was way off, a simple "thank you, but we are not interested" is sufficient.

4. Consider a Counteroffer

Just because an offer isn’t perfect doesn’t mean it’s a lost cause. If the buyer seems serious but the price or terms aren’t ideal, consider sending a counteroffer.

A counteroffer could include:
- A higher price that aligns with your expectations.
- Adjusted contingencies or closing dates.
- Removal of unfavorable conditions like excessive repair requests.

If the buyer is genuinely interested, they may be willing to negotiate rather than walk away.

5. Have Your Agent Handle It

If you’re working with a real estate agent, you don’t have to decline the offer yourself. A good agent knows how to handle rejections professionally and tactfully.

Simply let your agent know your decision, and they can communicate with the buyer's agent in a way that keeps negotiations open if necessary.

They might even suggest strategies to get the buyer to submit a stronger offer instead of walking away.

6. Keep Future Opportunities Open

Just because a buyer's initial offer wasn't right doesn't mean they won’t come back with a better one. For this reason, it’s essential to be polite and professional when declining an offer.

If you think there’s potential for a second, improved offer, consider saying something like:
> “We appreciate your interest, but we’re looking for a stronger offer. If you’re open to revising, we’d be happy to consider it.”

This keeps the conversation going and might lead to a better deal in the end.

Mistakes to Avoid When Declining an Offer

Now that you know how to turn down a real estate offer properly, let’s talk about what not to do.

1. Ignoring the Buyer

One of the worst things you can do is leave a buyer without a response. Even if the offer is laughably low, a quick rejection is more professional than radio silence.

2. Being Rude or Dismissive

Just because an offer isn’t appealing doesn’t mean you should be dismissive. Real estate is a business, and professionalism goes a long way. A buyer who feels insulted won’t come back with a better offer.

3. Closing the Door Completely

Even if you’re rejecting an offer, leave room for future possibilities. You never know if the buyer may return with a more attractive deal.

A simple “We’re not interested at this time, but thank you for your offer” keeps things open-ended.

4. Rejecting Without Considering a Counteroffer

Sometimes, an initial offer isn’t perfect, but with some negotiation, it could turn into a great deal. Before outright rejecting an offer, ask yourself if there’s anything worth negotiating.

Final Thoughts

Declining a real estate offer doesn't have to be stressful. When done professionally and respectfully, it maintains your reputation, keeps potential buyers interested, and increases your chances of securing the best deal.

By responding promptly, keeping your tone professional, considering counteroffers, and leaving the door open for future negotiations, you’ll ensure that declining an offer is just another step toward finding the right buyer.

Selling a property is all about strategy, and even rejection can be used to your advantage when handled correctly. Stay professional, be courteous, and remember—your perfect offer might be just around the corner!