Here are some pointers to negotiate a good deal this season.
Tip #1: Do your research
Knowledge is power, and when it comes to negotiating, you’ll want to arm yourself with as much information as possible. Understanding the local property market will help you identify a good deal when you come across one, and how much competition you’re up against.
When you find a property you like, be sure to check out the sale prices of similar properties in recent months. Find out how long properties are staying on the market for, and the auction clearance rates in the area. If conditions are favouring buyers, it may leave you more room to negotiate on price.
We offer free suburb and property reports that contain a wealth of property market information, so please get in touch!
Tip #2: Make sure your finance is in order
If you do find a bargain, you’ll want to be in a position to jump on the deal.
Pre-approval means a bank has agreed, in principle, to lend you a certain amount of money. It is important that this is fully verified pre approval as many lenders are now only providing system pre approvals. Having a fully verified pre-approval gives you confidence to bid at auction or play hardball during private negotiations with vendors. It may also give you an edge over other buyers without pre-approved finance.
Tip #3: Find out why a vendor is selling
In order to negotiate a great deal, it’s important to understand the vendor’s motivation to sell. What type of settlement terms and deposit will be most attractive to them?
For example, they may be moving interstate, or need access to money fast, in which case they may drop their price for a shorter settlement. Maybe they need an extra-long settlement while they find somewhere else to live? Or perhaps a larger deposit would make you more favourable compared to other buyers?
Ask the real estate agent why the vendor is selling and use the information as a negotiation tool.
Tip #4: Get building and pest inspections done
Building and pest inspections not only alert you to issues with the property, they can also be used as ammo during price negotiations. Say there’s an issue but it’s not a deal-breaker, you may be able to use the information to negotiate a lower sale price.
Let’s chat
We also deal with some amazing buyers’ agents who we recommend highly. If you need some assistance, from finding a property to negotiating on your behalf and even attending auction for you, these guys are specialists and can help. A reminder too if you need a contract of sale checked, we have the legal partners to assist you with this as well. Ask us for an intro.