Should I Accept the First Offer or Wait for More in San Jose? (2026 Guide)

Should I Accept the First Offer or Wait for More in San Jose? A 2026 Seller Strategy Guide

One of the most stressful moments for sellers happens surprisingly fast:

• “We already got an offer…”

• “Should we accept it?”

• “What if another one comes in higher?”

• “What if this is the best we’ll get?”

In San Jose, first offers can be strong, weak, or strategic — and knowing the difference matters.

This guide explains when accepting the first offer makes sense, when waiting can help, and how to evaluate offers intelligently in 2026.

For a full overview of the selling process, start here:
👉 https://re38.com/sell-your-home-san-jose-guide

Is the First Offer Usually the Best Offer?

Sometimes — but not always.

In many cases, the first offer:

• comes from the most motivated buyer

• reflects early excitement

• sets the tone for the listing

But in other cases, first offers may:

• test the seller’s expectations

• leave room for negotiation

• arrive before full market exposure

The key is context, not timing alone.

When Accepting the First Offer Makes Sense

Accepting the first offer may be smart when:

• the price aligns with your strategy

• terms are clean and low-risk

• the buyer is well-qualified

• contingencies are reasonable

• the market response matches expectations

Strong early offers often mean the home was priced correctly.

For pricing context, review:
👉 https://re38.com/blog/how-do-i-determine-my-homes-listing-price-san-jose

When Waiting for More Can Help

Waiting may make sense when:

• showings are strong

• multiple buyers are expressing interest

• the offer is below expectations

• terms are weak or risky

In these cases, a counteroffer or short wait can create competition.

The Risk of Waiting Too Long

Waiting without a plan can backfire.

Risks include:

• buyers losing interest

• offers expiring

• market momentum slowing

• future offers coming in lower

The goal isn’t waiting — it’s strategic timing.

How Market Conditions Affect This Decision

In 2026:

• buyers are more selective

• overpricing is punished

• strong homes still attract early interest

• weak listings don’t improve with time

Understanding the current market is critical.

For timing expectations, see:
👉 https://re38.com/blog/how-long-will-it-take-to-sell-my-home-san-jose

Price vs Terms: What Matters More?

The highest offer isn’t always the best offer.

Sellers should consider:

• financing strength

• contingency length

• appraisal risk

• buyer flexibility

• likelihood of closing

Clean terms often outperform slightly higher prices with risk.

For cost context, review:
👉 https://re38.com/blog/what-fees-and-commissions-will-i-pay-as-a-seller-san-jose

What Sellers Should Do Next

When evaluating offers, it helps to:

• compare all terms objectively

• understand buyer motivation

• consider market momentum

• align decisions with your goals

I help sellers:

• evaluate offers strategically

• negotiate confidently

• avoid emotional decisions

• maximize results

👉 If you want help evaluating an offer, reach out here:
https://re38.com/contact

📞 Got an Offer and Not Sure What to Do? Let’s Talk

You don’t have to guess or rush.

A short conversation can help you decide whether accepting, countering, or waiting makes the most sense for your situation.

Zaid Hanna
408-515-1613
www.re38.com