Who Delivers Your Offer to the Seller Framework
Introduction
When buying or selling a home, every step of the process matters—and one critical question often arises: who delivers your offer to the seller? Understanding the framework behind this process not only ensures smoother transactions but also gives both buyers and sellers confidence in the outcome. Real estate deals involve multiple players—agents, brokers, attorneys, and sometimes even digital platforms. Knowing how the delivery framework works can make the difference between an accepted offer and a missed opportunity.
This article breaks down the full process of delivering offers to sellers, the role of real estate professionals, compliance requirements, and how technology is changing the framework.
What Does “Delivering an Offer” Mean?
In real estate, delivering an offer refers to the formal presentation of a buyer’s written purchase proposal to the seller. This includes:
- The purchase price offered
- Proposed terms and contingencies (financing, inspections, closing dates)
- Conditions (repairs, seller credits, etc.)
- Supporting documents (proof of funds or pre-approval letters)
Legally and ethically, this is a structured process designed to ensure that sellers receive every bona fide offer in a timely, transparent, and compliant manner.
Who Delivers the Offer to the Seller?
1. Buyer’s Agent
In most transactions, the buyer’s real estate agent prepares and submits the written offer. They are responsible for:
- Drafting the purchase agreement
- Ensuring all documents are signed
- Delivering the offer to the seller’s agent or directly to the seller (depending on state laws)
- Advising the buyer on strategy and terms
2. Seller’s Agent (Listing Agent)
The seller’s agent plays a central role in the delivery framework. Their duties include:
- Receiving the buyer’s offer
- Presenting the offer to the seller as soon as possible
- Explaining the terms, risks, and benefits of the offer
- Helping the seller compare multiple offers, if applicable
3. Brokers or Attorneys
In some jurisdictions, brokers or real estate attorneys may also be involved, especially in:
- Commercial property transactions
- States where attorneys handle closings
- Complex deals requiring legal oversight
4. Digital Platforms
With the rise of e-signatures and online offer management systems, offers can now be delivered securely through digital frameworks. This ensures timestamp tracking, compliance, and transparency for all parties.
The Seller Framework: Step-by-Step
- Buyer Submits Offer – Buyer’s agent drafts the offer and sends it to the seller’s agent.
- Offer Review – Seller’s agent must present the offer promptly and review terms with the seller.
- Discussion and Negotiation – Seller evaluates the offer, possibly countering or requesting adjustments.
- Acceptance or Rejection – Seller signs (accepts), counters, or rejects the offer.
- Formal Communication – Final decision is documented and communicated back to the buyer’s side.
Legal and Ethical Requirements
Real estate laws and ethical codes ensure fairness in the offer delivery process:
- Duty of Prompt Presentation – Most state laws and Realtor® codes require listing agents to present all offers to the seller immediately.
- Full Disclosure – Agents cannot withhold offers, even if they think an offer is weak.
- Fiduciary Duty – Both buyer’s and seller’s agents must act in their client’s best interest.
- Written Documentation – Offers must always be in writing to be valid and enforceable.
Table 1: Roles in Delivering an Offer
| Role | Responsibility | Compliance Requirement |
| Buyer’s Agent | Drafts and submits offer | Ensures accuracy & completeness |
| Seller’s Agent | Presents offer promptly | Fiduciary duty to seller |
| Broker/Attorney | Oversees legal compliance | Jurisdiction-specific |
| Digital Platforms | Secure delivery & recordkeeping | Transparency & timestamp tracking |
Why the Framework Matters
The way offers are delivered can dramatically affect outcomes:
- Transparency – Ensures sellers review every offer.
- Fairness – Protects buyers from discrimination or neglect.
- Efficiency – Speeds up negotiations and closing.
- Compliance – Reduces legal risks for agents and brokers.
Table 2: Benefits of a Clear Delivery Framework
| Benefit | Impact on Sellers | Impact on Buyers |
| Transparency | Trust in process | Assurance offer is considered |
| Speed | Faster decisions | Timely responses |
| Legal Protection | Avoids disputes | Protects rights |
| Negotiation Power | Compare multiple offers | Fair competition |
Technology and the Future of Offer Delivery
Digital transformation is reshaping the offer delivery framework:
- E-signature platforms like DocuSign simplify submission and acceptance.
- Online offer dashboards let sellers view and compare offers in real-time.
- Blockchain-based contracts (emerging) promise even more security and transparency.
This shift not only streamlines workflows but also reduces human error and builds greater trust in the process.
Conclusion
The framework for who delivers your offer to the seller is more than just a technical detail—it’s a system that ensures fairness, transparency, and compliance in real estate transactions. From buyer’s agents drafting proposals to listing agents presenting them, every step matters in protecting the interests of both buyers and sellers.
By understanding this framework, buyers can feel confident their offers are handled properly, and sellers can trust they’re making fully informed decisions. As technology continues to evolve, the process will only become faster, more secure, and more transparent.