This year's long winter in the Northeast continues to have an impact. The volume of homeowner's insurance claims has resulted in a delay in home repairs that has kept some potential sellers from listing their homes for sale. The consequence? Less inventory for sale and a seller's market.

In a really tight seller's market, there's always the possibility that multiple interested buyers might put in simultaneous bids on a house – sometimes even on the same day the house is listed. The good news is that the savvy buyer can use some strategies to win a bidding war. Here are just a few ways that buyers can make their offer the most attractive on the table:

•Be prepared. If you're thinking of buying a home, you should talk to your lender about loan pre-approval. Including a pre-approval letter with your offer will show the seller that you are not only serious about buying, but that you've made sure that you've lined up financing and are prepared for the purchase. You should also partner with a real estate agent who can help you craft an attractive offer. Your agent will know the specifics of the market in which you are buying and can use that knowledge to your advantage.

•Aim high. Don't put in a lowball offer. A seller is not going to consider the lowest offer on the table when there are multiples offers to choose from.

•Be creative. An attractive offer doesn't have to be just about money. Consider waiving repair costs or avoiding asking for a lot of extras. Accommodate the seller's timeline and move-out date. A few small compromises could mean that your offer comes out on top.

•Flash your cash. A large amount of earnest money submitted along with an offer can really get a seller's attention. A hefty down payment can also indicate your interest.

•Consider the counteroffer. If a seller comes back with a counteroffer, it means that you have the opportunity to negotiate. Your agent can help you determine how to best leverage your interest and buying power against any demands the seller might make. Perhaps you can manage a slightly higher monthly payment and the house is worth a little more money than you initially offered. Or maybe you can be flexible about the contingencies in the final contract.

A final bit of advice: Do your research up front. Don't jump into a home purchase without understanding the market conditions and the likelihood that you might find a lot of competition for the available inventory. Your real estate agent can help you understand the current market client so that you enter into any home search with eyes wide open.

Interested in learning more? Visit www.lexingtonresidences.com for more information.