Buying a home will probably be the single largest purchase you will ever make. Having a trusted Asheville real estate agent to negotiate on your behalf is important. The Asheville housing market is in high demand, and having someone on your side to get you from searching to offer to closing is to your benefit.
Get your finance in order. Being pre-approved will let sellers know you are serious, and will also stay withing budget constraints when seeking properties.
Base your offer on the home value, not the listing price. Recent home sales in the neighborhood will give you and your Asheville real estate agent ammunition when making an offer. If a home is priced at or below market value, you’re unlikely to get it for less. If it is priced above market value and has been on the market for a while, a lower offer accompanied by a market analysis may get you the home. This is where a good agent can be invaluable.
If you see a home you like, be prepared to move fast. In a competitive market such as Asheville, properties move quickly. Be prepared to make your first offer the best. A good agent will tell when to move and how fast. Often a home can go on the market and be under contract the same day in the right neighborhood at the right price.
A home Inspection is always a good idea. Speak with you REALTOR®, but a home inspection is always a good idea. You may find items that need repair or you need to ask for credit at closing. Inspections can be done before submitting an offer for better negotiations.
Find out why the seller is moving. The more you know about the seller, the more you can tailor your offer. Does the seller already have a new place and want a quick closing? Is there a divorce involved? Does the seller not have a new place and therefore would prefer a longer closing or even a rent-back agreement? The more you know, or your agent knows the better ability you have to negotiate.
Expect to compromise. No matter your price range, you won’t find a perfect house. You’re likely to have to compromise on features and probably even on the big three: price, size or location. Enter your negotiations prepared to compromise, and you’ll be a step ahead.
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