What is a Presentation of Offers?

by Jenna Schmid

If you’re navigating the Saskatoon real estate market—whether as a buyer or a seller—you may come across the term “presentation of offers.” This is a common strategy used in competitive markets to help sellers manage multiple bids and create fair, transparent conditions for all buyers.

So, what exactly is a presentation of offers? Let’s break it down.

A presentation of offers is a scheduled time and date when a seller will begin reviewing any and all purchase offers submitted for their property. Instead of responding to offers as they come in, the seller waits until the set time, allowing potential buyers to prepare their best offer.

Why Use This Strategy?

In a hot market like Saskatoon’s—especially during spring or when inventory is low—presentation of offers can help create urgency and encourage multiple buyers to compete. This often leads to stronger terms, cleaner offers, and potentially higher sale prices.

How It Works

Let’s say a seller lists their home on Monday and sets the presentation of offers for Friday at 7:00 PM. During the week, the home is shown to prospective buyers, who then prepare their offers. At the scheduled time, the seller’s agent reviews all offers with the seller. The seller can accept one, counter an offer, or choose to reject them all.

What Buyers Should Know

If you’re a buyer, it’s crucial to know that this process gives you only one shot to stand out. Make your offer as strong as possible—consider your price, deposit amount, conditions, and even writing a personal letter to the seller. Work closely with your real estate agent to craft a competitive offer that reflects the home’s value and your level of interest.

What Sellers Should Know

As a seller, this strategy gives you time to gather interest and creates a more level playing field among buyers. It can lead to multiple offers and even bidding wars—but it’s important to work with a knowledgeable agent who can guide you through selecting the best offer, not just the highest one.

Is It Always Used?

Not necessarily. Presentation of offers is most common in seller’s markets, when homes are in high demand. In a balanced or buyer’s market, it might be more beneficial to review offers as they come in, depending on your goals and timeline.

Presentation of offers is a powerful tool in Saskatoon real estate when used strategically. Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding the process can help you make more informed decisions and feel confident in your next steps. If you have questions or want help navigating an upcoming offer presentation, feel free to reach out—I’m here to guide you every step of the way.