Best and Final Offers When Buying a House in West Cork

Best and Final offer on a property. If you’re thinking about buying a home in West Cork, you may find yourself in a competitive bidding situation — especially with the continued demand for property in West Cork. In these cases, estate agents often move to what’s known as a “Best and Final Offer” process.

This guide explains how best and final offers work, why they’re used, and what to include to give yourself the strongest possible chance of securing your ideal property.

What Is a Best and Final Offer?

A Best and Final Offer is when an estate agent asks all interested buyers to submit their highest offer for a property by a set deadline — usually because there are multiple competing bids. This is the seller’s way of quickly and fairly selecting a buyer without drawn-out negotiations.

In the Irish property market, this process is becoming more common — particularly in desirable locations like West Cork, where demand often outpaces supply.

When and Why It’s Used?

A best and final offer is typically requested when:

• There are several serious buyers
• Offers are escalating rapidly
• The seller wants to reach a decision quickly and transparently

It helps the seller compare offers not just by price, but by buyer readiness, financial strength, and conditions attached to the offer.

How to Submit a Best and Final Offer on a property

If you’re asked to submit your final offer on a property, follow these steps to give yourself the best chance:

1. Submit your offer in writing (typically via email) by the specified deadline.
2. Include:
   • Your full name and contact details
   • Your offer amount
   • Proof of funds or mortgage approval in principle
   • Your solicitor’s details
   • Any conditions (e.g. subject to survey)
   • Your preferred timeframe for closing

Being prepared with all of this upfront shows you’re serious and ready to proceed — which can give you an edge over other bidders.

Is a Best and Final Offer Legally Binding in Ireland?

No. In Irish law, no offer is legally binding until written contracts are signed by both parties.

Even if your best and final offer is accepted, the deal isn’t legally sealed until you’ve exchanged signed contracts via solicitors. That said, once an offer is accepted, most sellers will expect the sale to progress without delay — and buyers are generally expected to honour their final offer.

Can I Withdraw My Best and Final Offer or Change My Mind?

Yes. Even after submitting your best and final offer, you are not legally bound to go ahead until contracts are signed. Withdrawing may disappoint agents or sellers, but it is allowed under Irish law.

How Much Over Asking Price Should I Offer?

There’s no fixed rule: in a hot West Cork market, some successful buyers go €5,000–€20,000 (or 2–5%) over the asking price. Research recent sales, ask your agent for insight, and decide what feels like your best—but affordable—bid. Offer your maximum “no regrets” amount: the figure at which, if you lose, you won’t feel you should have gone higher.

Tips for Buyers in a Competitive Property Market

✅ Get mortgage approval early – It shows you’re ready.

✅ Have your solicitor instructed – This avoids delays.

✅ Know your budget limit – Don’t overstretch in the heat of a bidding war.

✅ Respond quickly to agent communications – Speed and clarity matter.

If you’re buying a house in West Cork and asked to submit a Best and Final Offer, don’t panic. It’s simply the seller’s way of drawing a fair and timely conclusion to the bidding process.

The key to success is preparation. By presenting a well-structured, fully backed offer, you stand a strong chance.

Thinking of Buying or Selling in West Cork?

At DNG Galvin, we’ve been helping buyers and sellers navigate the West Cork property market for over 40 years. We combine local knowledge with award-winning marketing and personal service.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to trade up, our experienced team is here to help.

Contact us today or explore the latest houses for sale in West Cork on our website.

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