Fret not because we at the Jacobo Realty Group have put together some tips that will give you an edge in the negotiation table and, ultimately, great savings in the purchase of your first home.
Keep emotions at bay
Buying your first home is, no doubt, a major life milestone that could get your emotions running high. Not keeping them in check during negotiations could lead to impulsive decision-making. You could ultimately end up buying a home that’s way over your budget or riddled with flaws in its design.
The best approach in a negotiation is to treat it like a business transaction and focus on your goal – not just to make the most out of your money but also to find a home that perfectly suits your needs.
Decide on your final price
As early as possible, know how much house you can afford. Work with your agent in determining the best offer possible while also giving space for negotiations with the seller. Your agent can also help you to understand the motivation of the seller. That way, you can use this as your leverage in negotiations so you can have more savings.
Inquire about furnishings and cosmetic upgrades
There are cases when sellers would do cosmetic upgrades such as adding a fresh coat of paint to the home’s interiors before putting it up for sale. Some may also leave behind furnishings, decor, appliances, or even installed fixtures instead of transporting the bigger furniture to their new home or uninstalling then reinstalling the fixtures.
Make sure to inquire about these items as sometimes, the seller might just leave them behind as gifts. Others may be leaving the items to boost their home’s resale value. While this is not ideal for buyers who may already have their own stuff, first-time buyers can save some money by taking in the existing furniture that’s already in place.
Search for neighborhood info and get pre-qualified for a mortgage
When negotiating for a home’s final selling price, consider letting your agent do a comparative analysis of prices of other recently sold homes in the neighborhood. You can also check the home’s proximity to school areas, business and commercial districts, and other crucial areas that are vital to your lifestyle.
We also recommended getting pre-qualified for a mortgage to prove to the seller that you can finance the payment for their home. This puts you a step ahead of the competition and your offer more attractive to the seller.
Buying homes for sale in San Diego for the first time
The various communities of San Diego have some of the best starter homes for first-time homeowners. It’s a dynamic and thriving environment with great spaces as well for rest and relaxation.
If you’re looking for new homes in San Diego, we have the perfect team to help you! The Jacobo Realty Group has over 20 years of real estate experience. We have helped thousands of first-time home buyers happily purchase their homes.
Call us today at 760.632.8900 or contact us here to learn more.