Time Is of the Essence: What Every Buyer (and Agent) Needs to Know About Counter Offers in Redlands Real Estate

A counter offer is not a guarantee. It is an invitation to negotiate, and that invitation can be pulled at any time.

This just happened again on one of my listings, and I want to share it because I see buyers and even other REALTORS® get this wrong constantly.

The Scenario

A seller sends a counter offer. The counter gives the buyer three days to respond. Everyone assumes those three days are locked in. The buyer relaxes. Their agent tells them there is no rush.

Then another offer comes in. The seller has every right to withdraw the counter offer and accept the new one, even if the original three-day window has not expired.

Why This Catches People Off Guard

Most buyers, and honestly a lot of agents, read "three days to respond" as a promise. It is not. Under California real estate contracts, a counter offer can be revoked by the seller at any time before it is accepted, as long as that revocation is communicated before the buyer signs and delivers their acceptance.

Three days is a deadline, not a shield. It tells the buyer when the offer expires. It does not tell the seller they must wait.

What This Means for Buyers

If you are serious about a home, do not sit on a counter offer. Time is of the essence in a competitive market like Redlands, San Bernardino, Highland, Loma Linda, and Yucaipa, where desirable homes rarely stay quiet for long.

Respond quickly. Respond decisively. A counter offer sitting in your inbox is not a guarantee. It is a countdown, and someone else's offer can end it early.

What This Means for Sellers

As your listing agent, my job is to protect your options every step of the way. If a stronger offer comes in while your counter is still outstanding, we act. We do not wait around out of politeness. Real estate is a business of timing, and I make sure my sellers never lose leverage because they assumed they had more time than they did.

The Takeaway

Real estate moves fast, especially in our local Inland Empire market. Whether you are buying or selling in Redlands or the surrounding communities, having a REALTOR® who understands contract timing and acts fast can be the difference between winning the home you love and losing it to someone who moved quicker.

Time is of the essence. Always.

If you are buying or selling a home in Redlands, Highland, Loma Linda, Yucaipa, or anywhere in the Inland Empire, let's talk strategy before you are ever in this position. Call or text me at 909.213.8565, or reach out at [email protected].

Cristina Caministeanu REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California | DRE# 01304425 Founder, Reveal Home Staging redlandsrealestatepros.com