An escalation clause states a buyer is willing to raise their offer if a seller receives a higher offer. In most cases, the written escalation clause will specify that the competing offer must be a "bona fide offer," which means it's a genuine and provable bid.The escalation clause increases a buyer's offer to a stated dollar figure above the highest competing bid. An escalation clause is a stipulation inserted into a buyer's offer to ensure it remains competitive. If they say no escalation clauses and you add one you probably aren't getting the house unless yours is the best offer without the clause. An escalation clause is a rider written into a purchase offer to assist an individual in beating out competing offers in real estate. Use an escalation clause. â–« Escalation Clause with a Cap. An escalation clause is an addendum to an offer on a property, stating a buyer's willingness to increase their bid if the seller receives a competing offer.