How to make an offer on your dream home.

A written proposal is the foundation of a real estate transaction. 

Oral promises are not legally enforceable when it comes to the sale of real estate in the state of Virginia. 

Therefore, you must enter into a written contract, which starts with your written proposal.  This proposal not only specifies price, but all the terms of and conditions of the purchase. 
For example, if the sellers said they'd help with $2,000.00 toward your closing costs, be sure that it is included in your written offer and in the final completed contract, or you won't have grounds for having that credited at settlement.