How To Win In A Competitive Spring Housing Market (and not lose your mind!)

Michael Delano | March 16, 2025

Spring has sprung! You know what that means—longer days, blooming flowers, and… a red-hot housing market!

If you’re planning to buy a home this spring, you also know, you’re not alone. More buyers are jumping into the market, and competition is heating up. Homes are getting multiple offers again, and the days of “waiting to think about it” are over.

So, how do you stand out? How do you actually win in today’s market without losing your mind (or overpaying)? Here’s what you need to know:

1. Get (FULLY!) Pre-Approved (Not Just Pre-Qualified!)

Sellers want serious buyers. A pre-approval letter (not just a pre-qualification) shows you’re financially ready to go. It tells the seller, “This offer is solid.” And in a multiple-offer situation, that can make all the difference.

Pro Tip: Work with a lender (like me!) who can provide a fully underwritten pre-approval to make your offer as close to cash as possible. So when I make that pro-active lender call to the listing agent-they can convey my commitment to you and to them to their sellers.

2. Be Ready to Move Fast

• That dream home you just saw? Five other buyers just saw it too. In a competitive market, hesitation = lost opportunities.
• See a home you love? Schedule a showing ASAP.
• Want to make an offer? Be ready to submit quickly.
• Have questions? Get them answered before the offer deadline.

3. Make a Strong Offer (It’s Not Just About Price)

A higher offer isn’t always the best offer. Sellers care about certainty—so terms matter just as much as price.

• Shorter contingencies? Big win.
• No finance contingency because we did everything upfront for you-and my underwriter has you approved? HUGE win.
• Flexible closing date? Sellers love it.
• Larger earnest money deposit? Shows commitment.

Work with your realtor and lender to craft an offer that stands out, not just the highest number on paper.

4. Consider a Mortgage Strategy That Helps You Win

In a competitive market, the right financing strategy can give you an edge.

• Rate buydowns: Lower your payment without waiting for rates to drop.
• Seller concessions: Even more reason to work with a full-time professional realtor-it matters and makes a difference. Ask for closing cost help to keep more cash in your pocket.
• Bridge loans or HELOCs: If you’re selling and buying, this can make moving easier.

Every buyer’s situation is different, so let’s talk strategy before you start making offers.

5. Work With the Right Team

Having the right lender and realtor can be the difference between getting your dream home and watching someone else move in. You need professionals who:

• Communicate quickly (slow responses = lost deals)
• Have a strong reputation (sellers take that into account)
• Know how to navigate multiple offers

If you’re serious about buying this spring, now is the time to get your game plan in place. Let’s connect and make sure you’re ready to win.

Message me or drop a comment below if you’re thinking about buying this spring!

Click HERE to book a call in my schedule for up to 60 minutes!

Scott Davis
Regional Vice-President
NMLS ID 166596

O: (571) 800-1974 | M: (703) 209-3138 
E: scott@davisteam.com
W: DavisTeam.com