Negotiations are a typical part of the home buying process in North County San Diego. And while the asking price is certainly a common bargaining point, it isn’t the only thing that can be negotiated. So what other items are on the table? When you’re negotiating your next home purchase, these are the things you may want to talk about with the seller.
The closing date
Timelines can be tricky when you’re closing on a home. You may have a current home you’re trying to sell, and the seller may also be buying a new home. That’s a lot to consider. One of the things that you can negotiate when buying a North County home is the closing date. Depending on your needs and the seller’s needs, it can be pushed back or possibly even moved up. And being flexible with the closing date can make your offer more attractive in a competitive market.
Repairs and upgrades
Don’t bargain away your ability to have the home inspected before you purchase it. Though it could make your offer really attractive, it could also set you up for costly repairs after you close. Instead, use the result of the home inspection as a way to negotiate. If the inspection uncovered some repairs that need to be made, you might see if you can get a reduction in price or have the sellers make the repairs before you close.
Closing costs
Closing costs are another thing that can be negotiated when you’re buying a home. If the seller doesn’t want to budge on the asking price, then ask if they will cover more of the closing costs. Closing costs can range from 2-7 percent of the purchase price. Having the seller cover some of the costs will mean you’ll need less money upfront at closing.
Major appliances
Not all appliances will be part of the home purchase. In fact, you should get in writing what will and won’t be included in the sale. If the seller wasn’t planning to include some of the appliances, then this is another area you can negotiate. See if they will throw in the dishwasher or refrigerator if they don’t want to wiggle on the purchase price. You might also even ask to have some of the furniture or home décor included if you really like it. It never hurts to ask.
Loan fees
The seller isn’t the only person you can negotiate with when buying a home. You can also look for savings with your home loan. One of the best things you can do to save money is to shop around for your mortgage. Each lender will have their own fees and rates, and you can score significant savings by seeing what your options are. Ask to see a breakdown of all the fees, and don’t be afraid to negotiate the cost of things like title insurance.
Contact the Clark & Gilman Team
Is buying a North County San Diego home on your to-do list for 2021? Then contact the Cristine Clark & Jamie Gilman Team today at 760-758-1211 or [email protected]. We’d love to help you make your real estate dreams a reality this year!
