Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. Beyond choosing the right property, an equally important step is making an offer. Many first-time buyers (and even some experienced ones) ask the same question:
Who delivers the offer to the seller?
Is it you, your real estate agent, the listing agent, or someone else?
In this guide, we’ll go step by step through the process of delivering an offer, who’s responsible, and what role each person plays. By the end, you’ll understand exactly how your offer reaches the seller — and how to make sure it stands out.
Why Knowing the Offer Delivery Process Matters
Understanding the delivery process isn’t just about curiosity. It’s a practical advantage.
- If you know who’s responsible, you can avoid delays.
- If you understand how offers are presented, you can strengthen yours.
- You won’t be caught off guard if you know what’s normal.
A well-prepared, properly delivered offer could mean the difference between getting your dream home or losing it to another buyer.
Who Delivers the Offer to the Seller?
1. The Buyer’s Agent (Most Common)
In traditional real estate transactions, your Buyer’s agent delivers the offer to the seller’s listing agent. This is the most common setup and works like this:
- You and your agent sit down to draft the offer.
- Once signed, your agent sends it (often electronically) to the listing agent.
- The listing agent reviews it and then presents it to the seller.
This system keeps things professional, documented, and legally binding.
2. Direct Delivery (If You Don’t Have an Agent)
If you’re buying without an agent (common in For Sale By Owner transactions), you can:
- Hand the offer directly to the seller in person.
- Send it by Email or certified mail for a record.
- Use a real estate attorney to draft and deliver it on your behalf.
This method gives you more control, but also comes with more responsibility.
3. The Role of the Seller’s Agent
It’s important to note: the seller’s agent doesn’t make decisions. Their job is to:
- Receive your offer.
- Present it fairly to the seller.
- Explain the terms in detail.
The final decision rests with the seller, not their agent.
Offer Delivery: Step-by-Step Framework
Here’s how the process typically unfolds:
| Step | Who’s Involved | What Happens | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Drafting | Buyer + Buyer’s Agent | Decide price, terms, and contingencies | \$280,000 with inspection clause |
| 2. Signing | Buyer | Buyer signs legally binding offer | You sign digitally |
| 3. Sending | Buyer’s Agent | Sends offer to seller’s agent | Email with PDF attached |
| 4. Reviewing | Seller’s Agent | Presents offer to seller | Meeting or phone call |
| 5. Response | Seller | Accept, reject, or counteroffer | Seller counters at \$285,000 |
| 6. Negotiation | Both Agents | Communicate back and forth | Agents email/call each other |
| 7. Agreement | Buyer & Seller | Both sign final deal | Accepted at \$282,000 |
Real-Life Example Scenarios
Example 1: First-Time Buyer with Agent
Sarah is buying her first home. She hires an agent who prepares and emails the offer to the listing agent. The seller’s agent meets with the homeowner and explains the offer, and the seller decides to accept it with a minor change to the closing date.
Sarah never directly hands the offer to the seller — her agent does all the work.
Example 2: Investor Buying Direct from Seller
A property investor, Mike, spots a house listed For Sale By Owner. He doesn’t use an agent. Instead, he prepares the offer with his lawyer and personally emails it to the seller. The seller reviews it, counters, and they negotiate directly without agents.
Comparing Delivery Methods
| Delivery Method | Who Delivers? | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Through Agent (Most Common) | Buyer’s agent → Seller’s agent | Professional, legally sound, less stress | Less direct contact with seller |
| Direct (No Agent) | Buyer → Seller | More control, faster communication | Risk of mistakes, no professional buffer |
| Attorney-Assisted | Buyer’s lawyer → Seller | Legally precise, good for complex deals | Extra cost for legal fees |
Common Questions About Offer Delivery
Can I deliver my offer in person?
If the seller has an agent, protocol usually requires agent-to-agent delivery. Sellers’ agents prefer all communication to go through them.
How long does it take for the seller to see my offer?
Usually within 24 hours. Listing agents are legally obligated to present offers quickly.
Can my agent influence the seller?
Agents can’t make decisions for sellers, but how they present your offer (organized, professional, with a pre-approval letter) can affect how it’s perceived.
What if the seller gets multiple offers?
All offers are presented to the seller, often side by side. Sellers may pick the strongest, counter one, or ask for “highest and best” offers.
Timeline of Delivering an Offer
| Stage | Timeframe | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Drafting & Signing | 1–2 days | Depends on how fast you finalize terms |
| Sending to Listing Agent | Same day | Often within hours |
| Seller Review | 24–48 hours | May be faster in hot markets |
| Negotiations | 1–5 days | Multiple back-and-forths possible |
| Final Agreement | 3–7 days | Once accepted, escrow begins |
Tips to Make Sure Your Offer Stands Out
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage before making an offer.
- Offer clean terms: Fewer contingencies make you look stronger.
- Act quickly: In hot markets, waiting even one day can cause a loss of the deal.
- Include an earnest money deposit: Shows seriousness.
- Write a personal letter (if allowed in your area): Some sellers respond emotionally.
Mistakes to Avoid When Delivering an Offer
- Sending an incomplete or unsigned offer.
- Forgetting to include proof of funds or a pre-approval letter.
- Delivering directly to the seller when they already have an agent can cause issues.
- Ignoring deadlines — expired offers are automatically void.
Final Thoughts
So, who delivers your offer to the seller?
- In most cases, Your Buyer’s agent delivers it to the seller’s agent.
- you or your attorney delivers it straight to the seller in direct deals.
The key isn’t just who delivers it — it’s how well-prepared and professional the offer is. A clear, timely, and competitive offer has a much higher chance of acceptance.
When you understand the framework, you avoid mistakes, speed up the process, and put yourself in the best position to secure your new home.
