Plan ahead before making an offer to buy a house. Negotiating advice for first time buyers
As well as your strengths, look at the seller's position. Ask the right questions at viewings. Are they keen, maybe even desperate to sell?
An estate agent acts for the seller - to pay the lowest price you have to negotiate with them. Preparation helps you negotiate better
When searching for a home, you work closely with agents. It's easy to forget they act for the seller and must get the highest price.
They're skilled at assessing how keen a buyer is and how much they'll pay. Even in a buyers' market they'll aim for the maximum.
Planning and preparation before making an offer or negotiating on price, will help save you money
As a first time buyer you can't match an estate agent's experience. But you can negotiate on price effectively - with preparation and advice.
- Know your strengths before making an offer to buy a house
- Weigh up the market, the home, the seller's circumstances before you negotiate on price with the agent
It may take a little extra time and effort. But when you make your offer, negotiating better could save you £1,000s to £10,000s.
Know your strengths before making an offer on a house
If there's a lot of property for sale it's tough for sellers. Know how to it to your advantage as a first time buyer.
If a property shortage is driving up prices, be aware of overpriced homes.
Do the seller's circumstances allow tougher bargaining for a lower price? Review your research.
Plan your offer ahead. Decide how firmly you can negotiate on price
Decide beforehand exactly what to say, before making an offer to buy a home. Show the agent you know your facts and won't overpay.
- Planning what to say helps negotiate on price with confidence
- Know what to expect from the agent and how to respond
- Don't weaken your hand. Know what to avoid saying
Your opening offer is an important part of negotiating on price
- Too high. You could overpay. Leave room to negotiate
- Too low. You risk hardening seller's attitude to negotiations on price
Would you like to know more?
The guide from our sister site EstatesForum is specifically to help homebuyers negotiate on price and save money. You'll find practical advice and tips at each step in home buying.
Find advice for first time buyers to negotiate better on price
Negotiate on house price with estate agents more effectively.
Learn the tricks of the trade.
Save money - haggle for the lowest price. Home buying advice is available from EstatesForum.
How to target the lowest price
Agents must always negotiate for the most money.
Be sure of your facts before you negotiate on price.
When making an offer on a house always remember -
Research is the key to knowing the facts about your local market.
Negotiate with conviction. Show you the estate agent you won't overpay.
