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.Act Fast — Like, Now
When you receive a counteroffer, you should respond quickly — ideally within 24 hours. The longer you wait, the more space you leave for another buyer to swoop in and nab the property. Also? If a seller senses hesitation, they may decide to withdraw their counteroffer before you even have a chance to respond.Pick Up the Cost of the Home Warranty
Sometimes sellers offer prospective buyers a home warranty. This is a plan that covers the cost of repairing major home appliances and systems, like the air conditioner or hot water heater, if they break down within a certain period (typically a year after closing). A basic home warranty costs about $300 to $600 a year, according to Angie’s List. If it seems like waiving the home warranty can sweeten negotiations, but you still want the peace of mind of having one, tell the seller they don’t need to cover it — then buy it yourself. Just keep in mind, whether you or the seller buy the warranty, you’ll need to pay the service fee (typically between $50 and $100) if something does, indeed, need to be repaired while under warranty. Also, FYI: A home warranty is entirely separate from homeowners insurance. Homeowners insurance — the security blanket that covers your home’s structure and possessions in the event of a fire, storm, flood, or other accident — is required if you take out a mortgage. It can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 per year.
4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 1040
Added: 10/03/19, Last Updated: 11/30/2019
Property Type: Detached Home for Sale
MLS Number: VAFX1092238
Subdivision: Newington Forest
Properties in Fairfax County $465,000 to $565,000
See more in Fairfax County $465,000 to $565,000
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