What should I include when submitting my first purchase offer?

Make the proposal unambiguous

Use the exact listing reference and enough detail to identify the home, parking, storage and other areas under discussion. State the proposed price and currency, and list furniture or equipment you expect to remain. Explain whether you are relying on finance, selling another property or arranging representation from abroad.

Set out the checks and information still required, including legal review, technical inspection and clarification of documents. Ask your lawyer how these should be expressed and whether a proposed response date or other wording creates obligations.

Keep negotiation separate from assumptions

Explain your preferred sequence for inspections, document review and completion discussions without promising arrangements you cannot control. An agent can communicate your proposal, but should not be treated as your independent legal adviser.

Request a written response identifying any changes. Do not assume that calling a message an “offer”, or saying it is preliminary, determines its legal effect. Before signing a reservation document or paying a deposit, obtain separate advice on the terms, recipient, refund provisions and consequences if the purchase does not proceed.