How should I respond to a buyer’s written offer?

Review the whole proposal

Read the offer carefully and confirm the property, proposed amount, intended payment arrangements, requested completion timing, conditions, inclusions and any requested period of exclusivity. Check whether the buyer’s identity and ability to proceed have been assessed, and what evidence is available. Do not infer certainty from an agent’s description of the buyer’s position.

If anything is unclear, ask the agent to obtain a revised written offer or clarification. Avoid accepting, rejecting or countering in a rushed phone call. You can acknowledge receipt while stating that you are reviewing it; make clear that acknowledgement is not agreement.

Take advice before commitment

Ask your lawyer to explain the legal effect of any proposed acceptance, reservation, deposit or other written arrangement in the circumstances. Confirm Greek legal and tax questions with a qualified lawyer or accountant. A counterproposal can change several terms at once, so keep each version dated and identify what remains open.

Decide what matters beyond the headline amount, including conditions, buyer readiness and whether the proposed timetable fits your plans. Instruct the agent in writing about the response you wish to communicate and request a copy of the message sent. Ensure all parties know which terms, if any, are agreed and which still require formal documentation. Do not rely on assumptions about when a sale becomes binding; have your lawyer explain that specifically.