In real estate, most people obsess over price.

They fight for every dollar, negotiate endlessly, and assume the highest offer always wins.

But in the real world—especially in investing, distressed sales, and competitive markets—speed often matters more than price.

Understanding this one concept can help you:

• Win more deals

• Reduce risk

• Create leverage in negotiations

• Solve real problems for sellers

Let’s break it down.

The Hidden Cost of Waiting

On paper, a higher price looks better.
In reality, time is expensive.

Every extra day a property sits unsold can mean:

• Mortgage payments

• Property taxes

• Insurance

• Utilities

• Maintenance

• Stress and uncertainty

For many sellers, especially motivated ones, certainty beats a higher number.

They are not just selling a house.
They are trying to end a problem.

Speed Creates Certainty

Speed removes unknowns.

A fast, clean offer tells a seller:

• “This will close.”

• “There won’t be surprises.”

• “I won’t have to relist or renegotiate.”

That certainty is powerful.

Many sellers will gladly accept less money if it means:

• No showings

• No inspections

• No lender delays

• No appraisal issues

• No buyer backing out

Speed equals confidence.
Confidence wins deals.

Why Investors Win With Speed

Investors understand something traditional buyers often miss.

The goal is not to “win” the negotiation.
The goal is to control the outcome.

Fast closings allow investors to:

• Lock in opportunities before competitors

• Reduce holding costs

• Avoid market shifts

• Recycle capital faster

A deal that closes in 10 days at a slightly lower price is often far better than a deal that might close in 60 days.

When Sellers Value Speed the Most

Speed becomes the top priority when sellers are dealing with:

• Inherited properties

• Tired landlords

• Vacant homes

• Properties in disrepair

• Divorce or family transitions

• Financial pressure

In these situations, the seller’s biggest fear is more delay.

They want the problem gone.

Speed vs. Price in Competitive Markets

In hot markets, buyers assume price is everything.

But sellers still choose offers based on:

• Cash vs. financing

• Closing timeline

• Contingencies

• Buyer reliability

A slightly lower, faster, cleaner offer often beats the highest bid with uncertainty attached.

This is why experienced operators structure offers around execution, not just numbers.

4

The Takeaway

Price gets attention.
Speed gets results.

If you want to win more deals:

• Focus on certainty

• Eliminate friction

• Move decisively

• Solve the seller’s problem, not just your own

In real estate, the best offer is often not the highest one.
It’s the one that actually closes.