Define: Counter Offer

Counter Offer
Counter Offer
Quick Summary of Counter Offer

A counter offer occurs when someone responds to an offer made by another person during negotiations, automatically rejecting the initial offer. This requires the person who made the initial offer to either accept the terms of the counter offer or there will be no agreement. For instance, if someone offers to sell their house for $150,000 and the buyer counters with $140,000, the original offer becomes invalid. The seller then has the option to accept the new offer, propose another counter offer, decline the offer, or let it expire.

Full Definition Of Counter Offer

A counter offer is a response to an initial offer made during negotiations for a final contract. It is an offer made by the opposing party that modifies some of the terms of the original offer. When a counter offer is presented, it automatically dismisses the previous offer and generates a new offer. The new offer must be agreed upon based on the conditions of the counter offer, or else no contract will be formed. For instance, if Susan Seller proposes to sell her house for $150,000 to be paid in 60 days, and Bruce Buyer responds with a counter offer of $140,000 payable in 45 days, the original offer becomes invalid. The Seller can choose to accept the new offer, make another counter offer, reject the counter offer, or let it expire. Similarly, in a job negotiation, if an employer offers a salary of $50,000 per year and the employee counters with a request for $60,000 per year, the employer can choose to accept the new offer, make another counter offer, reject the counter offer, or let it expire. These examples demonstrate how a counter offer can alter the terms of an initial offer and create a new offer that must be accepted based on the conditions of the counter offer.

Counter Offer FAQ'S

A counter offer is a response made by the offeree to the original offer, which introduces new terms or conditions. It essentially rejects the original offer and proposes a new agreement.

A counter offer can be made orally or in writing, depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the transaction. However, it is generally recommended to have a written counter offer to avoid any misunderstandings or disputes.

Yes, a counter offer terminates the original offer. Once a counter offer is made, the original offer is no longer valid and cannot be accepted.

Yes, a counter offer can be withdrawn by the party who made it, as long as the withdrawal is communicated to the other party before they accept the counter offer.

No, a counter offer cannot be accepted. It is considered a rejection of the original offer and the parties must negotiate further or make a new offer.

Yes, a counter offer is often used as a negotiation tactic to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. It allows the parties to propose alternative terms and conditions until they reach a consensus.

A counter offer is legally binding if it is accepted by the original offeror. Once the counter offer is accepted, it becomes a new agreement between the parties.

Yes, a counter offer can be made after the original offer has expired. However, the original offer is no longer valid, and the counter offer will be treated as a new offer.

Yes, a counter offer can include additional terms and conditions that were not present in the original offer. It allows the parties to negotiate and modify the terms of the agreement.

Yes, a counter offer can be made in response to a counter offer. The parties can continue to negotiate and make counter offers until they reach a mutually acceptable agreement or decide to terminate the negotiations.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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