What a “Make Offer” Listing Means on Hemmings

Updated

A “Make Offer” listing on Hemmings is a listing type where the seller invites buyers to submit an offer rather than presenting the vehicle at a fixed, take-it-or-leave-it price. If you are browsing Hemmings and see a vehicle marked this way, you can propose the price you are willing to pay, and the seller decides whether to accept, counter, or decline. The final deal depends on negotiation between the two parties.

How this differs from a standard listing

Listing type What the buyer sees What the buyer does
Standard fixed-price listing A stated asking price Decides whether to pay it or contact the seller
Make Offer listing An invitation to propose a price Submits an offer for the seller to consider

The practical difference is who sets the starting number. With a fixed price, the seller has already named it. With Make Offer, the seller has left room for the buyer to open the conversation with a figure.

What to expect as a buyer

  • You are not committing by asking. Submitting an offer starts a negotiation; it does not automatically complete a purchase.
  • The seller is not obligated to accept. An offer can be accepted, countered, or turned down.
  • Terms beyond price still matter. Condition, inspection, paperwork, transport, and payment method are typically worked out alongside the number.
  • A realistic offer helps. Sellers listing this way usually have a figure in mind, so an offer grounded in the car’s condition and comparable sales moves faster than a lowball.

What to expect as a seller

Choosing Make Offer signals that you want to hear from serious buyers rather than hold a firm price. It suits situations where the market value is uncertain, the car has needs that affect value, or you are open to a quick sale at the right number. You keep control: you can wait for an offer you like, respond with a counter, or pass.

A concrete example

Suppose a 1968 coupe is listed as Make Offer with a detailed description and photos. You inspect the photos, note the described flaws, check recent sale prices for similar cars, and submit an offer below what you consider fair market value to leave room for a counter. The seller responds with a higher figure. You settle somewhere in between, then agree on inspection and payment. That back-and-forth is the normal shape of a Make Offer transaction.

Before you act

  • Read the full listing description and look closely at the photos; condition drives what a fair offer is.
  • Ask about title, service records, and any known issues before naming a price.
  • Confirm how payment and pickup or shipping would work before you treat an accepted offer as final.

For the site’s own listing tools and current options, check the Make Offer listings page at hemmings.com/buy-car-make-offer.