How to Write a Strong Offer on a Markham Home

September 28, 2026

By Michael John Lau, REALTOR®with Neeraj Moolchandani, REALTOR®Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp RealtySeptember 24, 20267 min read

How do I write a strong offer on a home in Markham?Base your price on recent comparable sales, include a solid deposit, keep only the conditions you truly need, match the seller's preferred closing date where you can, and have your pre-approval ready. A strong offer balances price and terms.

An offer is more than a number. Sellers compare the whole package: price, deposit, conditions, closing date and how reliable the buyer seems. In Markham's busier neighbourhoods, a well-built offer can win against a slightly higher one.

The Kaizen Real Estate Team writes offers for buyers across Markham and York Region every week. Here are the parts that matter most.

1. Price Based on Sales, Not the List Price

List prices can be set low to attract offers or high to leave room. Recent comparable sales are the better guide. Decide your ceiling before offer night, when you are calm.

2. A Meaningful Deposit

The deposit shows commitment. In the GTA it is commonly delivered within 24 hours of acceptance and held in trust by the listing brokerage. A larger deposit can make your offer look stronger, as long as you can afford it.

Want a straight answer for your home? The Kaizen Real Estate Team gives Markham owners a clear, no-pressure plan. Call (647) 370-8885 or talk to a buyer's agent.

3. Conditions: Keep What Protects You

Condition	Protects you from
Financing	Not getting the mortgage you need
Home inspection	Hidden defects
Status certificate (condos)	Fee, reserve fund or legal problems
Lawyer review	Title or contract issues

Removing conditions makes an offer stronger but adds risk. A pre-offer inspection and a firm pre-approval can let you drop some conditions safely. Ask before you decide.

PARTNER PERSPECTIVE

A Call Before the Offer

Before submitting, Neeraj Moolchandani calls the listing agent to ask what matters most to the seller: price, date or certainty. That one call often shapes the whole offer.

Neeraj Moolchandani then builds the terms around that answer, while keeping the buyer protected.

4. The Right Closing Date

Ask the listing agent what closing date works best for the seller. If you can match it, your offer becomes easier to accept.

5. Clear Inclusions

List appliances, light fixtures, window coverings and anything else you expect to stay. Vague inclusions cause disputes on closing day.

6. Be Ready

Have your pre-approval, deposit and lawyer lined up before you look seriously. See closing costs in Markham and the mortgage calculator. For competing offers, read how to win a bidding war without overpaying.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much deposit should I offer on a Markham home?

It varies with price and competition. Many buyers offer a meaningful amount delivered within 24 hours of acceptance. Your agent can suggest a range based on the property and market.

Should I waive the home inspection?

Only if you understand the risk. A pre-offer inspection lets you learn about the home first and may allow a firm offer with more confidence.

Can I offer below asking in Markham?

Yes, if recent sales support it. Some homes are priced above market; your agent's comparable sales will show where fair value sits.

Found a home you like? Get a value check and an offer strategy before you write. Call (647) 370-8885 or talk to a buyer's agent.

Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. This article is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and market conditions change; confirm details with the appropriate professional before acting.