Here’s How to Negotiate Your Best House Buy, Six Key Tips

In my opinion, especially with residential sales,  if you keep your emotions in check and your eyes on the goal, you’ll  most likely pay less when purchasing real estate in Sun Valley.

Here are six tips for negotiating the best price on a home.

1. Get pre qualified for a mortgage

Getting prequalified for a mortgage proves to sellers that you’re serious about buying and capable of purchasing their home. That will push you to the head of the pack when sellers choose among offers; they’ll go with buyers who are a sure financial bet, not those whose financing could flop.

2. Ask  good questions

Ask us for information to help you understand the sellers’ financial position and motivation. Are they facing foreclosure or a short sale?  Have they already purchased a home or relocated, which may make them eager to accept a lower price to avoid paying two mortgages? Has the home been on the market for a long time, or was it just listed?  Have there been other offers?  If so, why did they fall through?  The more signs that sellers are eager to sell, the lower your offer can reasonably go.

3. Work back from a final price to determine your initial offer

This is a great tip.  Know in advance the most you’re willing to pay, and we can work back from that number to determine your initial offer, which can set the tone for the entire negotiation. A too-low bid may offend sellers emotionally invested in the sales price; a too-high bid may lead you to spend more than necessary to close the sale. Work with us to evaluate the sellers’ motivation and comparable home sales to arrive at an initial offer that engages the sellers yet keeps money in your wallet.

4. Avoid contingencies

Sellers favor offers that leave little to chance. Keep your bid free of complicated contingencies, such as making the purchase contingent on the sale of your current home. Do keep contingencies for mortgage approval, home inspection, and environmental checks typical in Sun Valley, like radon.

5. Remain unemotional

Buying a home is a business transaction, and treating it that way helps you save money. Consider any movement by the sellers, however slight, a sign of interest, and keep negotiating.

Each time you make a concession, ask for one in return. If the sellers ask you to boost your price, ask them to contribute to closing costs or pay for a home warranty. If sellers won’t budge, make it clear you’re willing to walk away; they may get nervous and accept your offer.

6. Don’t let competition change your plan

Great homes and those competitively priced can draw multiple offers in any market. Don’t let competition propel you to go beyond your predetermined price or agree to concessions—such as waiving an inspection—that aren’t in your best interest. 

Let us know how we can help.  Wouldn’t you like to make a great buy on your next home purchase, too?