If you’re like many people, you’re looking for the perfect home for sale in Knoxville – and it’s an exciting process. When you find one you love, your REALTOR® will encourage you to make an offer.
But what you may not know is that there are five pretty big things you can negotiate when you buy a home in Knoxville.
5 Things You Can Negotiate When You Buy a Home in Knoxville
You and your agent can discuss all the things you’d like to include in your offer, but for quick reference, here are five things you can negotiate when you buy a home in Knoxville:
- Repairs
- Closing costs
- Closing date
- Fixtures
- A home warranty
Here’s a closer look at each.
Asking Sellers for Repairs
You can always ask sellers to make repairs before you sign the dotted line. In fact, many people – after an accepted offer – hire a home inspector; the issues that arise during the home inspection are fair game (as is anything else) for negotiation.
Sellers can agree to make the repairs, tell you no, or make a counteroffer – but they won’t do anything unless you ask them to.
Asking Sellers for Closing Costs
In many cases, buyers can negotiate with sellers so that sellers pay all or part of their closing costs. It’s worth noting that closing costs can be between 2 and 7 percent of a home’s sales price – and that’s a lot of cash.
Your REALTOR may suggest that you ask your sellers to kick in. Often, sellers don’t mind paying some closing costs if they’re sure it’ll get you to the closing table.
Asking Sellers for a Different Closing Date (or Offering a Different Closing Date)
You can negotiate the closing date with your sellers in either direction (sooner or later). Remember, too, that sellers are likely under quite a bit of pressure (they’re selling a house and probably buying another at the same time, which you might be doing as well). Being flexible with your closing date can encourage sellers to make other concessions, like flooring allowances or hiring a professional painter to put in a fresh coat before you buy.
Asking Sellers to Leave Some Things Behind
Things that are attached to a home, like light fixtures, window blinds, built-in systems and some appliances are generally considered fixtures. Fixtures stay with the house when it changes ownership. However, sometimes there’s an appliance, sculpture, or other piece that’s a perfect fit – so you can ask the seller to leave it behind as part of the deal.
Asking Sellers for a Home Warranty
A home warranty covers the cost to repair or replace major appliances, and some policies cover systems like the HVAC, plumbing and electrical as well. You can (and probably should) ask your sellers to buy you a one-year home warranty to give you the peace of mind you need (and help you save some cash if something goes wrong).
Are You Buying a Home in Knoxville?
If you’re ready to buy a home in Knoxville, I’ll help you find one that’s perfect for your needs. Call me at 865-368-5150 now and let’s talk.
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