Do You Need Any Nuggets Of Wisdom For Negotiating In Fairfax County?

For most people, this is the desire: the seller signs off on your offer, skip the haggling, and instead you can spend your valuable time worrying about paint colors and moving companies.

And it could crop up. Of course, collected s accept the first offer they gaze upon, and in 22315 in Fairfax County because of a variety of reasons. On the other hand, property sellers are also known to reject offers in consideration of various rationale. Or make counteroffers. A counteroffer is especially possible if you make an offer with lots of conditions, or when there is more than one offer. If you do receive a counteroffer, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to accept the new contract, negotiate the terms, or walk away. In cases like these, as your agent, I'll be standing ready and I want you to get in touch with me. I will be your guide to real estate negotiations in Alexandria, if you decide you want to negotiate with the seller. By this I mean that I will use my experience and negotiating ability as we craft a series of offers and counter-offers to help get you the ideal deal on your dream home. I have the experience you need. As events unfold, you'll be right there with me. . I’ll help you understand the negotiating tactics we will deploy. Those conventions will vary depending upon the property but in Alexandria here are some basics we often come back. In Northern Virginia, let's examine engaging tips every property hunter should know from the outset:

1. Buy Your own Home WarrantyA home warranty is something that sellers may offer. This is a plan that covers the cost of major appliance repair, such as the air conditioner or hot water heater, in the case of a malfunction. A home warranty, which according to Angie’s List can cost between $300 to $600 a year, is effective for a designated period of time after purchase, usually one year. If it seems that waiving the home warranty will make negotiations easier, you can tell the seller not to worry about it and then just buy it yourself. Regardless of who pays for the warranty, you will be responsible for paying the service fee, usually between $50 and $100, if something needs to be repaired. It is important to remember that a home warranty is different from homeowners insurance. Homeowners insurance, unlike a home warranty, is required if you take out a mortgage on your home. It can cost between $300 to $1000 per year, but it covers your home’s structure and possessions in a fire, storm, flood, or other accident.

2. Increase Your Earnest Money Deposit

   Your earnest money deposit, or EMD, is the sum of money you put down to prove to the seller you are serious about buying the house. Putting down more money shows the seller that you’re more serious about the sale. The standard amount of the EMD is usually 1% to 3% of the home’s selling price. If you offer 3% to 4%, the seller may be more likely to side with you.
3. Walking away may be the Best ChoiceNegotiations can be physically and emotionally draining and very time consuming. When you’re negotiating with a seller, make sure you listen to your agent – and to your gut. If either is telling you that it’s a bad deal, walking away may be the best choice. If you feel like you can’t make any more trade-offs and the seller won’t budge, don’t give in any more than you are comfortable with. Walking away can be a tough decision to make, especially after all the hard work you’ve put in, but you should know that there is a better deal out there waiting for you. And once your frustration passes, you’ll know that you have more experience in this and next time you negotiate, it will be easier for you.

Are you interested in a mid-market dwelling in Alexandria? Call me. 

Contact us to get a free no obligation list of similar properties or to be notified when properties become available with your criteria.

 

See more in Hayfield

It would be my pleasure to help you achieve your real estate goals.