3 Things Every Agent Should Do Before Writing an Offer! (Plus a Bonus 4th Step)

It’s exciting when a buyer finds a home they love — sometimes so exciting that agents feel pressured to rush into writing an offer.. But as Sheldon Johnston, Broker/Owner of Liv Real Estate®, often says, “Preparation is what separates great agents from the rest.”

Before reaching for the offer paperwork, take the time to walk your clients through these three key details. This will not only build confidence but also ensure the offer you write is informed, strategic, and aligned with your client’s best interests.

Watch as Sheldon Johnston explains the 3 things every real estate agent should go over with their clients before writing an offer — plus a bonus tip to take your service to the next level — and read more about it below.

1. Review the MLS® History

Every property tells a story, and the MLS® history helps reveal it. Before submitting an offer, show your clients the property’s listing history and discuss details like:

How long it’s been on the market
How many times the price has changed
If it’s been listed previously
If there were any previous ownership transfers

This context provides valuable insight. A home that’s been sitting on the market for a while might offer room for negotiation, while a property that’s come back on the market could have conditions worth investigating. By walking your buyers through this data, you show them that you do more than just find homes — you help them make informed choices.

2. Show Comparable Sales (Not Just Active Listings)

Many buyers gauge a home’s value by comparing it to other homes currently for sale. But as experienced agents know, active listings only tell part of the story — they reflect what sellers hope to get, not what the market has actually paid. Before writing an offer, review recent comparable sales with your clients. Focus on homes that are similar in:

Size and layout
Location and lot type
Condition and updates

Help them understand how these sold prices relate to the property they’re considering. In Alberta’s ever-changing market, this step ensures your clients make an offer that’s both competitive and realistic. (Tip: You can link this section internally to an educational post like “How Comparable Sales Determine Home Value.”)

3. Go Over the Property Title and Registrations

Titles often get overlooked in the excitement of writing an offer, but they can reveal crucial information that affects ownership and value. Before your clients commit, review the title and registrations with them to identify:

Liens or financial encumbrances
Easements or utility rights-of-way
Restrictive covenants (for example, architectural controls in certain neighbourhoods)
Caveats or conditions registered against the property

These details may impact how your clients use or finance their new home. Reviewing them now can prevent bigger issues later in the transaction. (Optional internal link: “Understanding Title in Alberta: What Buyers Should Know.”)

Bonus Tip: Set Expectations About the Offer Process

Once you’ve reviewed the MLS® history, comparables, and title, walk your clients through the offer process itself. Setting expectations early helps them feel confident and reduces stress when it’s time to sign. Explain key details like:

How long the offer process typically takes
What happens if there are multiple offers
When and how deposits are paid
The role of conditions (financing, inspection, etc.)

By preparing your clients for what to expect, you’re not only protecting their interests — you’re also reinforcing your role as a trusted professional.

The Takeaway

In today’s fast-paced market, it’s tempting to rush into writing an offer. But slowing down to review the MLS® history, comparable sales, and title, and to set clear expectations, will ensure your clients feel informed and confident.

At Liv Real Estate®, we believe that great agents don’t just close deals, they build relationships based on trust, transparency, and expertise. Ready to elevate your real estate career? Discover how we support our agents to deliver outstanding client service: Learn about joining Liv Real Estate®.

Posted by Liv Real Estate on November 12th, 2025