Getting an offer is exciting. Knowing what to do with it is where many Glenside sellers start to feel overwhelmed.
In the 2026 market, negotiation is less about “winning” and more about creating a clear, fair agreement that gets you to the closing table on your terms. Here are the key things I walk my Glenside clients through whenever we receive one—or several—offers.
Look beyond the purchase price
Price matters, but it is only one piece of the puzzle. When we review offers, we also look closely at:
Down payment and financing type
Proposed settlement date and possession terms
Inspection, appraisal, and other contingencies
Requests for seller credits or closing cost help
A slightly lower offer with stronger financing and fewer contingencies can be better than a higher offer on shaky terms.
Understand common contingencies in 2026
In a more balanced market, buyers are more likely to include inspections and reasonable contingencies. That does not mean you must say yes to everything, but you should understand what each item means.
Common contingencies we negotiate in Glenside include:
Home inspection
Appraisal
Sale of buyer’s current home
Radon, termite, or other specialty inspections
My role is to help you understand your options so that you can decide whether to accept, counter, or decline.
Be strategic with repairs and credits
After inspections, buyers may ask for repairs, credits, or a combination of both. Instead of reacting emotionally, we look at:
Which items are health or safety issues versus cosmetic preferences
Whether a credit or a targeted repair makes more sense for your timeline
How our decisions might impact the appraisal and buyer’s comfort level
Often, small concessions in the right places can keep a strong deal together and get you to closing on schedule.
Use market data to support your position
Even in a more balanced market, Glenside’s walkability, transit access, and community feel keep it in high demand. When we negotiate, I like to ground our responses in data:
Recent comparable sales that support our price
Showing activity and interest we have received
Feedback from other buyers and agents
This helps buyers and their agents see that your price and terms are reasonable, which can make them more comfortable moving forward.
Why who you hire matters for negotiation
The way your agent handles communication, timing, and tone can make a big difference in how negotiations feel—and how they end.
When you list with the Shaina McAndrews Team, you get:
A clear explanation of each offer and your options
Strategic guidance on when to push and when to compromise
Calm, professional communication with buyers’ agents
A focus on protecting your bottom line and your stress level
