Twelve seasoned professionals, including Realtors and CEOs, share their most effective strategies for negotiating home prices. From setting the negotiation stage with preparation to showing flexibility on terms to secure a deal, these experts reveal the key tactics that have led to successful real estate negotiations. When it comes to negotiating home prices effectively, here are 12 tips from seasoned buyers:
LEARN MORE: 3 things every seller needs to know right now about residential real estate
- Set the Negotiation Stage With Preparation
- Leverage Property Condition for Negotiation
- Try a Data-Driven Approach
- Include Research and Respect in Price Talks
- Negotiate With Non-Monetary Extras
- Create Leverage With Seller Motivation
- Point Out Property Flaws to Lower Price
- Use Objective Market Knowledge to Win Deals
- Influence Sellers With Emotional Appeal
- Guide Negotiation Tactics With Market Conditions
- Utilize Data Mining for a Negotiation Edge
- Show Flexibility on Terms to Secure a Deal
Set the Negotiation Stage With Preparation
A successful negotiation begins with the preparation and marketing of the home. Having a brochure with great pictures that showcase the amenities, and pricing it well, sets the stage for a good negotiation.
The inspection can present a stumbling block, but informing your seller ahead of time that buyers may ask for credit will prepare them for the inspection report. It’s advisable to strive for a monetary settlement rather than doing the work, allowing the buyers to oversee it to their preference.
Bernadette Marcis, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Schaumburg Realty
Leverage Property Condition for Negotiation
Before addressing the topic of negotiation, checking the property’s condition is a must. Many times, there’s an issue with the plumbing or electrical wires, or there might be mold or pests that need significant attention.
The seller might not give you the full picture of the home. I hired a professional who gave a thorough check of the property and determined what damages needed to be fixed. Once I had the numbers, it was pretty easy for me to negotiate with them, as it determined the actual value of the property.
The research gave me a good backup of analysis, which helped me understand how much I would have to spend on the damages to get them fixed, and making this point helped me negotiate with the seller successfully.
Sometimes the seller might not agree on this and might offer to pay for the damages. But either way, it’s a win-win, as you don’t have to spend extra on the damages.
Jean Christophe Gabler, Founder, Yogi Times
Try a Data-Driven Approach
Recently, I represented a buyer interested in a property that had been on the market for a significant period. The asking price was slightly above the market average, but the property had unique features that appealed to my client.
I conducted an in-depth market analysis to understand the property’s true value in the current market. This data-driven approach provided a solid foundation for negotiation.
Establishing a positive relationship with the listing agent was crucial. I focused on open and respectful communication to create an atmosphere conducive to negotiation.
Ritika Asrani, Owner and Head Broker, St Maarten Real Estate
Include Research and Respect in Price Talks
Effectively negotiating home prices involves research, patience, and clear communication. In one successful negotiation, the key was understanding the local market and the seller’s position. After researching comparable sales, I presented a fair, data-backed offer slightly below the asking price, highlighting its alignment with current market trends.
I also learned the seller was motivated to close quickly, so I offered a faster closing process in exchange for a lower price. This tactic showed that I was serious and considerate of the seller’s needs.
During negotiations, I maintained open and respectful communication, focusing on mutual benefits rather than adversarial bargaining. When the seller countered, I remained firm but flexible, reiterating the market analysis and my readiness to proceed swiftly.
This approach led to the seller accepting a price that was beneficial for both parties. The key was combining a well-researched offer with an understanding of the seller’s motivations.
Thomas Gallivan, New York Personal Injury Lawyer, Gallivan Law Firm
Negotiate With Non-Monetary Extras
Negotiating for items, rather than just the price, can be incredibly effective. A personal example that illustrates this strategy beautifully involves my brother, who recently bought a house. During the negotiation, he didn’t solely focus on lowering the price; he smartly included furniture in the deal.
He ended up keeping three couches, about $2,000 worth of decor, and an entire playset, collectively valued at over $10,000. Had he asked for a $10,000 reduction in the house price, I’m certain the offer would’ve been rejected.
The seller was more willing to leave these items behind than to drop the sale price. This approach worked because it’s often hard for sellers to quantify the value of these items in dollar terms, and honestly, it’s just easier for them to leave these bulky items behind.
When negotiating a home price, consider asking for non-monetary extras. It can make the deal more appealing to the seller while adding tremendous value for you.
John White, MBA – Owner, White Fox Cleaning Services
Create Leverage With Seller Motivation
I successfully negotiate property purchases by starting every phone call with a seller to understand their pain and motivation regarding their property. Once I understand the pain and motivation, I can discuss with the seller things besides the price that would benefit them, such as a flexible closing or an as-is sale with no showings.
This creates value and leverage for me to offer according to what an investor needs to be at. Next, I make a low offer to find out where their bottom number is. From there, I can come up incrementally while they typically come down much more than I come up.
For instance, in a recent deal found on a classified ads website, the seller wanted $250,000. I offered $175,000, and she countered with $185,000. I agreed to the $185,000 but proposed that she seller-finance it for 6 months. She declined that and reverted to the $175,000.
Sebastian Jania, CEO, Ontario Property Buyers
Point Out Property Flaws to Lower Price
One effective tactic is to identify and highlight any significant flaws or issues with the property. By presenting these findings in a non-confrontational manner, I can negotiate a lower price based on the necessary repairs or maintenance required.
For instance, in a recent negotiation, I pointed out structural concerns and outdated features in the property, using this information to negotiate a lower price that accurately reflected the property’s condition.
Jeremy Resmer, CEO, Value Land Buyers
Use Objective Market Knowledge to Win Deals
To effectively negotiate home prices, it’s crucial to understand your market and set a realistic price based on a Comparative Market Analysis. Emotional detachment is key; avoid letting personal attachments inflate the home’s value. Research the property value and the local market trends.
While consulting a client with their real estate asset selling process, I stress informing the client about all details at this time, like property issues, if any. When there are different comparable sales for similar properties, I highlight that during the negotiation, too.
Stick to important facts and avoid letting your or your client’s emotional attachments or personal opinions impact the discussion. Express genuine interest but emphasize your budget constraints and comparable property values. This tactic, coupled with a willingness to compromise, positions you as a reliable buyer.
Lyle Solomon, Principal Attorney, Oak View Law Group
Influence Sellers With Emotional Appeal
Go directly to the source. Send a letter to the homeowner, letting them know how much you love the house and how you’re hoping to discuss terms. Oftentimes, you can win them over through this kind of emotional appeal.
Be sincere, tactful, and, above all, polite. Handwrite the letter and mail it to them with a stamp. Give your missive a personal touch to see if there’s anything they can do. Chances are, they’ll be willing to help out and lower the price.
Mark Varnas, Principal SQL Server DBA and Consultant, Red9
Guide Negotiation Tactics With Market Conditions
Effectively negotiating home prices involves assessing market conditions. If it’s a buyer’s market, with more houses than buyers, you can negotiate more forcefully. Start with a lower offer.
In a seller’s market, where buyers outnumber available houses, sellers have more power. To stand out, be prepared to put in more earnest money, or you can also offer a higher down payment. Understanding these market dynamics helps you navigate negotiations successfully.
Jasen Edwards, Licensed Real Estate Agent and Coach, Agent Advice
Utilizing Data Mining for Negotiation Edge
Leveraging real estate data is a prominent tactic that I always utilize to negotiate homes at the best prices. Having more proven data or stats can provide an edge over the other party. With the advent of AI, it’s become most convenient for me, as many AI tools offer robust data mining in various sectors, including real estate.
I use data mining to gather all the relevant information about the property and its neighborhood. I analyze the historical prices of similar houses and other properties in the locality. Additionally, I collect data on ongoing market conditions. I compile a report on all these aspects and then use it in my negotiations.
Anthony Guerriero, Owner, Manhattan Miami Real Estate
Show Flexibility on Terms to Secure a Deal
I found success negotiating the cost of a home by being flexible on terms other than price. The property I was interested in had multiple offers.
I offered a competitive price, but what made my offer stand out was my flexibility on the closing date and willingness to buy the house “as-is.”
This approach appealed to the seller, who was looking for a hassle-free transaction. As a result, I secured the house at a good price without getting into a bidding war.
Erik Wright, CEO, New Horizon Home Buyers
