Understanding the Offer Process: What Sellers Need to Know

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📄 Understanding the Offer Process: What Sellers Need to Know

You’ve listed your home, hosted showings, and now you’ve received an offer—exciting, right? But before you pop the champagne, it’s important to understand exactly what’s in that offer and what your next steps are.

Selling a home in Gatineau or anywhere in Outaouais involves more than just saying “yes” to a price. Here’s a clear breakdown of the offer process, so you can make a confident, informed decision.

📝 1. What’s Included in a Buyer’s Offer?

An official offer (in Quebec, called a “Promise to Purchase” or “Promesse d’achat”) typically includes:

  • Purchase price – what the buyer is willing to pay

  • Deposit (earnest money) – shows buyer’s commitment

  • Conditions (contingencies) – inspections, financing, or sale of buyer’s home

  • Inclusions/exclusions – appliances, fixtures, etc.

  • Possession date – when the buyer wants to take ownership

  • Deadlines – how long you have to respond

✅ Tip: Don’t focus only on the price. Terms and conditions can make or break a deal.

🤝 2. What Are Your Options When You Receive an Offer?

Once you receive an offer, you can:

  • Accept it – You agree to all terms and the sale process begins.

  • Reject it – If it’s too low or the terms don’t suit you.

  • Counteroffer – You propose new terms (e.g., higher price, different possession date).

Your agent can help you negotiate and communicate with the buyer’s side professionally.

⚠️ 3. Understanding Conditions (Contingencies)

Most offers include conditions that must be met before the deal is final. Common ones include:

  • Financing – Buyer needs mortgage approval

  • Home inspection – Buyer can back out if serious issues are found

  • Sale of buyer’s property – Offer is conditional on the buyer selling their current home

Each condition has a deadline. If they’re not fulfilled, the offer becomes null and void.

💡 4. What Happens After Accepting the Offer?

Once you accept, the buyer typically:

  • Schedules their inspection

  • Finalizes their financing

  • Works with a notary to prepare legal documents

As the seller, your job is to:

  • Allow access for inspections

  • Provide any required documents (e.g., certificates, invoices, declarations)

  • Get ready for closing (signing day)

🔁 5. Can a Buyer Withdraw an Offer?

Yes—before acceptance, the buyer can withdraw their offer anytime.

After it’s accepted, they can usually only back out if:

  • A condition isn’t met (e.g., failed inspection)

  • You don’t meet your obligations as a seller

📆 6. What Happens on Closing Day?

In Quebec, a notary (not a lawyer) oversees the transaction. On closing day:

  • You sign the deed of sale

  • The buyer provides payment

  • You hand over the keys

Then the home officially changes hands.

🧭 Final Thoughts

Receiving an offer is a big milestone—but understanding the process is key to a smooth and successful sale. A good agent will help you:
✅ Review all terms
✅ Negotiate smartly
✅ Navigate legal steps with confidence

Selling Your Home in Gatineau?

At QuickAgentMatch.com, we connect you with top-rated local real estate agents who can guide you through the offer process—from first showing to final signature.

📍 Get a free home value estimate
🎯 Talk to a local expert who puts your interests first