Turning a House Into a Home: The Benefits You Can Actually Feel
There’s a lot of conversation about home prices, mortgage rates, and affordability right now – and those things are important. But if you’re thinking...
1 min read
Buying a home is a huge step for people who are ready to make an investment in their future. Getting a
great deal on a home is just as important and knowing how much to offer could be confusing. It is important to make sure the home seller is not insulted by the lowball offer and is ready to negotiate to make sure everyone wins.
Make a List of Necessary Improvements
One of the best ways to validate a lowball offer on a home is to list improvements that need to be made to the property. If the home needs a new roof or a new heating and air conditioning system, these are reasons to offer less than the asking price. Sometimes a home may also need new flooring, paint, or matching appliances which all cost money. The buyer can make a lowball offer stating additional expenses of making sure the home is move in ready.
Explain Any Issues with the Location
Another option when considering a lowball offer is to point out problems with the location. If the home is on a busy street or close to a manufacturing district, the buyer has legitimate concerns. In the offer, list the potential problems of living too close to fast food restaurants, train tracks, or airports. A less desirable location could equal a great buy on a new home.
Provide Pricing for Comparable Homes in the Area
A knowledgeable real estate agent can help compare homes that have sold in the area. When you are writing up a lowball offer, look at the lower priced homes that have sold in the same neighborhood. A seller will quickly realize that if he wants to sell the home, he will need to accept a reasonable offer or risk letting his house sit on the market for weeks or months.
Consider the Seller's Reasons for Selling
Finally, the seller's situation can also be key in getting a good deal on a home. If the seller is desperate to sell because of a job relocation or if he has already bought a new home this can be the perfect reason to make a low offer and take the home off the seller's hands. Without insulting the seller, the buyer can make an offer for less than the asking price and agree to a quick closing.
The content on this site is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered accounting, legal, tax, or financial advice. First Federal Bank recommends that customers conduct their own research and consult with professional legal and financial advisors before making any financial decisions. Links to third-party websites may be provided for your convenience; however, First Federal Bank does not guarantee the reliability, accuracy, or safety of the information, products, or services offered on these external sites. We are not liable for any damages resulting from the use of these links, and we do not investigate, verify, or endorse the content or opinions expressed on any third-party sites. First Federal Bank | Equal Housing Lender | NMLS # 408902
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