Best Offer Wins

Margo’s desperation for a house quickly escalates from minorly concerning behavior to an unhealthy obsession. When do you think she crosses a line?

Even as Margo crosses the line to get her dream house, did you find yourself sympathizing with her anyway? Why or why not?

What does the house come to symbolize for Margo beyond just being a place to live?

Margo discusses how she and Ian sold their “starter home” to upgrade to a bigger house. What does this say about Margo, or about American consumerism?

How do you think Margo’s childhood and background influence her choices and desires as an adult?

How does Margo’s fixation on the house affect her relationship with Ian?

Do you think Ian’s infidelity drives Margo to the edge, or is it Margo’s unhappiness and obsession that pushes Ian away?

Why does Margo ultimately decide she can live with Ian’s infidelity? Why was she willing to overlook this major crack in the picture of the perfect life she wanted?

How might the story have unfolded differently if Ian had shared her obsession?

The novel satirizes the overheated housing market. How does the story highlight inequities in access to housing and the “American Dream”?

What commentary does the novel make about the role of money, privilege, race, and social status in homeownership?

Did the book make you reflect on your own experiences (or fears) about housing, renting, or buying a home? How so?

What scenes made you laugh even though you felt you “shouldn’t”?

Do you think achieving “the dream life” is possible without compromise—or does striving for it always demand some level of obsession?

What would you have done in Margo’s situation? Where would you draw the line?