Buying guide

How to negotiate when buying a house

Get a better price for property

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 8 December 2024 | 5 min read
AI

AI summary

Negotiating when buying a house can save you thousands. Preparation is crucial: research comparable sales on Homes.co.nz, understand the seller's motivation, and get finance pre-approved to act quickly.

Make your offer strategically. A 'clean' offer with fewer conditions is more attractive. Consider these tactics:

- Start below your maximum price but back it with facts

- Increase your offer in small increments if countered

- Be flexible on terms like settlement dates

Remember the agent works for the seller, and be prepared to walk away.

Show your interest right away

Do your homework

Remember the agent’s working for the seller

Get ready in advance

Make your offer strategically

Limit your conditions

Be flexible

Think about your offer amount carefully

Back your offer up with facts

Go up in small increments

Tailor your offer to the situation

There's an art to negotiating - mastering it could save you thousands.

Get a little personal

Be willing to walk away

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer