Art of Negotiation

Everything is negotiable when buying a house. For some reason, most buyers either don't believe it or don't like it. Here's a partial list of what's negotiable when you buy a home:

• Price
• Financing
• Closing costs (except where specified by financing or law)
• Occupancy (When can you get the key and move in?)
• Painting (Will the seller repaint a portion of or the entire house?)
• Repairs (Will the seller repair the roof, plumbing, windows, etc., and what kind and quality of repairs will be made?)
• Yard (Will the seller remove unwanted trees, bushes - put in desired landscaping?)
• Fixtures (Which lights, fans, appliances, etc. stay and which go?)
• Wall coverings (Do the drapes stay or go?)
• Furniture (Will the seller include certain pieces?)
• Prepaid taxes and insurance (Will the seller credit you with these?)

Negotiation gives the buyer incredible power in making a favorable transaction. It can also place him or her in a position of immense weakness. Negotiation can determine whether you get the home of your dreams…or whether those dreams end up being a nightmare.

Ultimately, how you fare when buying a home is going to be a direct result of your knowledge. The more you know, the better position you'll be in to negotiate.

LRES Real Estate Blog

Lead In Your Home

A Citizen's Guide to Radon

A Brief Guide to Mold

Asbestos in Your Home

National Clandestine Lab Register

US EPA

National Relocation

National Home Search

Realty Link Directory

ABC Real Estate Directory

Real Estate Agents Directory and Homes for Sale

UK Discount Program