Buyers Have More Negotiation Power – Here’s How To Use It
You may have heard that inventory is increasing in many markets. While it varies by location, overall the market is starting to balance out. This shift means some sellers are becoming more open to compromise — and that can be good news for buyers like you.
Regain Some Negotiating Power
With more options available, you might find opportunities to negotiate savings, perks, or better terms on your home purchase — if you know what to ask for and how to ask for it.
Why an Agent Is Essential in Negotiations
Negotiations can be complicated. That’s why having an experienced agent is so important. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), after helping buyers find the right home, the top expectation is assistance with negotiating the sale terms and price.
Agents are skilled negotiators who understand the local market and know what’s working for other buyers. This insight helps you set realistic goals and avoid requests that could turn sellers away.
What’s Typically Negotiable?
Here are some common concessions an agent can help you negotiate:
Sale Price: Sellers who want to sell in a shifting market might adjust their asking price, especially if buyers aren’t willing to pay over budget.
Closing Costs: These fees (around 2-5% of the purchase price) cover appraisals, title insurance, and loan underwriting. You can ask the seller to cover some or all of these costs to reduce your upfront cash needs. In 2024, this was the most common seller concession.
Home Warranties: To ease worries about unexpected maintenance, sellers may cover a home warranty — a relatively small cost to them but a valuable perk for you.
Home Repairs: After an inspection, you can request repairs. If the seller prefers not to fix issues, they might lower the price or cover closing costs so you can handle repairs yourself.
Fixtures and Appliances: Want certain appliances or fixtures to stay — like the washer, dryer, or fridge? These can often be negotiated into the sale to save you money on moving in.
Closing Date: Timing matters. Whether you need a quick close or more time, negotiating the closing date to fit your schedule (and possibly the seller’s) can make a difference.
Bottom Line
Negotiations are complex, and not every seller will agree to concessions. That’s why working with an agent who knows what’s realistic — and what might jeopardize your offer — is so important.
As inventory grows, buyers have more leverage, and a skilled agent will help you use that advantage strategically to get the best possible terms.
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