So you're in the market for a new house and you've found the perfect one. Congrats! But now comes the hard part—making an offer that will be accepted. In a competitive market, it's more important than ever to make sure your offer stands out from the rest. Here are three tips to help you do just that.

1. Submit an offer above asking price 

In a seller's market, it's not uncommon for buyers to submit offers that are above the asking price. This sends a signal to the seller that you're serious about buying their home and that you're willing to pay a little extra to get it. If you're not comfortable going above asking price, another option is to include a personal letter with your offer explaining why you love the house and why you think it's the perfect fit for your family. 

2. Offer an appraisal gap 

An appraisal gap is when the buyer agrees to cover any difference between the appraised value of the home and the selling price. This protects the seller in case the home doesn't appraise for as much as they're hoping, and it shows that you're serious about buying the property. 

3. Execute an escalation clause 

An escalation clause is when the buyer agrees to increase their offer by a set amount if another competing offer comes in. This puts you at the top of the seller's list of potential buyers, which means there's a better chance your offer will be accepted. 

Making an offer on a new house can be daunting, but following these simple tips can help ensure your offer stands out from the rest. In today's competitive market, sellers are looking for serious buyers who are willing to pay a fair price for their home. By submitting an offer above asking price, offering an appraisal gap, or executing an escalation clause, you'll be sending a strong signal to the seller that you're ready to buy their home.