Should I disclose other offers to buyers?
Don’t tell buyers about competing offers — or do? Here’s the blunt truth you can use today.
Quick answer
Yes — sometimes. No — sometimes. The right call depends on leverage, timing, and legal rules in your market. “Disclose other offers” is not a one-size answer. It’s a negotiation tool. Use it with a plan.
Why this matters (search terms: disclose other offers, multiple offers, real estate negotiation)
When you’re handling multiple offers, how you disclose competing bids shapes buyer behavior. Proper disclosure creates urgency and competitive bidding. The wrong disclosure kills leverage, speeds lowball offers, or creates legal risk.
When to disclose competing offers
- When you have a strong lead buyer and want to create a final deadline for best offers. This drives better offers in short windows.
- When local rules allow publicizing offer status. Some MLS rules or provincial/state regulations limit details — check first.
- When you need to trigger escalation clauses or backup offers.
Avoid disclosure when:
- Buyers are volatile and will walk rather than compete.
- The market is buyer-friendly and urgency backfires.
- Legal or ethical rules restrict what an agent can reveal.
How to disclose without losing leverage (actionable steps)
- Be factual, not emotional. Say: “We have multiple written offers and are calling for highest-and-best by 5pm Friday.” No dollar amounts.
- Set a tight deadline. Short deadlines force decisions and reduce lowball bidding.
- Keep details confidential. Do not disclose offer prices, contingencies, or buyer identities unless required.
- Use an escalation clause strategically. It can capture extra value without public price disclosure.
- Qualify buyers. Push for proof of funds, pre-approval, and contingency limits before you push disclosure.
Legal and ethical boundaries
Every jurisdiction has rules. In many places, agents must keep offer details confidential unless the seller waives that right. Misrepresenting offers is illegal. Always document seller direction in writing.
For buyers: how to respond when told there are other offers
- Don’t panic. Submit your cleanest, strongest offer first: proof of funds, shorter inspection window, clear deadlines.
- Consider an escalation clause but cap it.
- Ask your agent to communicate buyer strengths (flexible closing, cash, minimal contingencies).
Action plan for sellers (simple checklist)
- Confirm local disclosure rules.
- Ask your agent to gather proof of buyer seriousness.
- Set a highest-and-best deadline.
- Avoid announcing prices; announce status and deadlines.
- Review offers with an experienced negotiator who can maximize competition.
Final thought — hire the right negotiator
The difference between a good sale and an exceptional sale is execution. A skilled agent knows when to disclose, how to protect confidentiality, and how to create controlled competition. That’s the leverage that turns offers into higher sale prices.
Want a straightforward evaluation and a tactical playbook for your listing? Contact Tony Sousa at tony@sousasells.ca or 416-477-2620. Visit https://www.sousasells.ca for market-specific guidance.
