You might have heard—more homes are hitting the market right now. While this depends on location, overall, the market is moving toward better balance. And with that shift, some sellers are showing more willingness to negotiate. So, what’s in it for you?
Buyers like you could gain the upper hand in negotiations. That might mean scoring a better price, securing extra perks, or getting more favorable terms—if you know how to make the most of this opportunity!
How an Agent Gives You an Edge in Negotiations
Real estate negotiations go beyond just price—they involve knowing what concessions and terms can be negotiated. That’s why having an agent is a game-changer.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), buyers rely on their agent the most for negotiating the sale’s terms and price after finding the right home.
Your agent brings experience, local market insights, and expert negotiation skills to the table. They understand what’s realistic, what other buyers are negotiating, and how to position your offer for success.
Key Negotiation Points: What Buyers Can Ask For
When buying a home, negotiation is key! Here are some common concessions you can request with the help of your agent:
- Sale Price: In today’s market, buyers have more room to negotiate a lower price, especially if a home is overpriced. Sellers who want to attract buyers may need to adjust their expectations.
- Closing Costs: These typically range from 2-5% of the home’s purchase price. You can negotiate for the seller to cover some or all of these expenses to reduce your upfront costs.
- Home Warranties: A seller-paid home warranty can offer peace of mind by covering certain repairs after you move in—an easy win for buyers.
- Home Repairs: If an inspection reveals issues, you can request repairs, a price reduction, or seller-paid closing costs to help cover the fixes.
- Fixtures & Appliances: Love that stainless steel fridge or washer/dryer? Ask to have them included in the sale to save on moving costs.
- Closing Date: Need more time to move in or want to close quickly? The timeline is negotiable based on both buyer and seller needs.
Negotiation is an art, and every seller is different. Some may be open to concessions, while others may stand firm. That’s why having an expert agent on your side is invaluable—they’ll help you understand what’s reasonable to ask for and what could risk turning a seller away.
Once you find the right home, you don’t want to lose it. But at the same time, you deserve the best possible deal—and that’s where expert negotiation comes in.
Bottom Line
With more inventory on the market, buyers have extra leverage, but it takes the right strategy to maximize it. Partnering with a knowledgeable agent can help you navigate the process with confidence.
What concerns you most about negotiating with a seller? Let’s discuss your options and create a plan that works for you!