ContractsHomebuying Glossary

Counteroffer

A seller's (or buyer's) response to an offer, proposing different terms instead of accepting outright.

In plain English

A counteroffer rejects the original offer's terms and proposes new ones — a different price, closing date, or contingencies — which the other party can then accept, reject, or counter again.

Why it matters

Negotiation is often a back-and-forth of counteroffers rather than a single accept/reject decision — expect a round or two before terms are finalized.

Where you'll run into it

Guides and tools on TheBuyingPath that cover counteroffer in context.

Related terms

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