Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

What To Negotiate When Buying A House

September 4, 2021

Real Estate

What To Negotiate When Buying A House

WHAT TO NEGOTIATE WHEN BUYING A HOUSE: Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned veteran, the negotiation part of the transaction can be a little daunting and stressful. However, it is necessary to ensure you are getting the best possible deal for your money. So, what should you negotiate when buying a home?

  1. Closing costs. Your closing costs are determined by a variety of factors, but you can expect it to be between 2% to 5% of the purchase price. Ask the seller to cover some or all of the closing costs upfront or request a closing credit that can be used to make specific updates and fixes to the home.
  2. Furnishings. Love how the seller has furnished and decorated the home? Buyers often negotiate keeping couches, fixtures, landscaping items, patio furniture, appliances, and more. And many sellers agree, wanting to make the home more appealing.
  3. Inspection and closing timing. Buyer offers that include a quick inspection and close timeline are often more attractive to sellers who have been going through the process for far too long. Just ensure you allow yourself ample time to get your financing in place and complete proper, thorough inspections. Click here for video about home inspections
  4. Home warranty. Sellers will often agree to pay the premium on the home warranty at closing and then hand it off to the new homeowner, who is responsible for the deductible on any future claims.
  5. Repairs. Your inspection may uncover small or large repairs needed to bring the home up to standard. You can negotiate to have these items fixed before closing or ask for a price reduction to cover the costs.

For more home buying tips, click here.

Explore Our Other Blogs

Stay Updated On Our Most Recent Blog Posts

From “Just Looking” to “Let’s Write the Offer”: A San Jose Realtor’s Step-by-Step Guide for Hesitant Buyers

Real Estate

From “Just Looking” to “Let’s Write the Offer”: A San Jose Realtor’s Step-by-Step Guide for Hesitant Buyers

Thao Dang Pham  |  September 18, 2025

From “Just Looking” to “Let’s Write the Offer”: A San Jose Realtor’s Step-by-Step Guide for Hesitant Buyers
“The Other Side of Silicon Valley: 12 Real Downsides of Living in San Jose (And How to Work Around Them)”

Real Estate

“The Other Side of Silicon Valley: 12 Real Downsides of Living in San Jose (And How to Work Around Them)”

Brian Ng  |  September 17, 2025

“The Other Side of Silicon Valley: 12 Real Downsides of Living in San Jose (And How to Work Around Them)”
“How Much Cash Do You Really Need to Buy a House in San Jose? (A No-B.S. 2025 Guide)”

Real Estate

“How Much Cash Do You Really Need to Buy a House in San Jose? (A No-B.S. 2025 Guide)”

Thao Dang Pham  |  September 16, 2025

“How Much Cash Do You Really Need to Buy a House in San Jose? (A No-B.S. 2025 Guide)”
“San Jose Living, Decoded: The 9 Best Neighborhoods (and How to Pick Yours)”

Real Estate

“San Jose Living, Decoded: The 9 Best Neighborhoods (and How to Pick Yours)”

Brian Ng  |  September 15, 2025

“San Jose Living, Decoded: The 9 Best Neighborhoods (and How to Pick Yours)”
“Does San Jose Really Have the Nation’s Priciest Homes? Here’s the Data (and What It Means for You)”

Real Estate

“Does San Jose Really Have the Nation’s Priciest Homes? Here’s the Data (and What It Means for You)”

Brian Ng  |  September 12, 2025

“Does San Jose Really Have the Nation’s Priciest Homes? Here’s the Data (and What It Means for You)”
“Is San Jose Declining? 11 Signs to Watch—And How Savvy Buyers Still Win”

Buyer's Real Estate Tips

“Is San Jose Declining? 11 Signs to Watch—And How Savvy Buyers Still Win”

Thao Dang Pham  |  September 11, 2025

“Is San Jose Declining? 11 Signs to Watch—And How Savvy Buyers Still Win”

Let's Talk

You’ve got questions and we can’t wait to answer them.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM