2025-12-27
5 min read
How sellers choose a winner when offers are close
When the top offers are similar, sellers choose based on completion. Here’s what actually influences the decision (and how to stand out).
If two offers are close, sellers rarely pick the “highest by £5” if the buyer feels risky. They pick the buyer who looks easiest to complete with.
What sellers care about (in reality)
- Certainty: will you pay quickly?
- Logistics: collection/delivery plan (and flexibility).
- Communication: calm, clear, normal.
- Profile: does it look like a real person/business/charity?
- Risk: any red flags (pressure, evasiveness).
If you want to win, reduce friction
Sellers choose the buyer who makes the deal feel “done” already. Your message should make the next step obvious.
- “Can pay immediately if accepted.”
- “Can collect Sat 11am or Sun afternoon.”
- “If delivery, I’m in most evenings.”
Try sealed bids with real listings
Related reading
FAQ
What matters most besides price?
Certainty: payment timing, logistics plan, and clear communication.
Do profiles matter?
Yes. A complete profile can beat a slightly higher offer if it signals reliability.
What’s a deal-breaker?
Pressure, weird urgency, and vague plans.
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Quick note
“Built with AI help (ChatGPT)” means AI assisted with code and content. Sealabid is independently operated and not endorsed by OpenAI.