Are you considering a custom home? There are a lot of benefits to building a custom home over purchasing an existing home. You have so many more options as well as the ability to negotiate. When it comes to Greensboro real estate, the only way to get exactly what you want is to work with a custom home builder. But before that first meeting, consider these negotiating tips to help you get the best deal.
Set a Maximum Price.
If budget is a concern for you, then determine what your maximum amount is to spend and do not agree to anything above that price. It’s easy to get carried away talking about all the amazing features that are available for custom homes, and next thing you know, you’re way over budget. If the builder tells you they can’t build the home you want for the price you want, be prepared to turn down the deal.
Determine What’s Included and What’s an Upgrade.
Your builder will include some features in the basic price and some features will be considered upgrades for an additional charge. Be sure you are clear about what items are included and what items will drive up the price. Use upgrades as a negotiating factor when it comes to price.
Do your Research.
The more information you have about Greensboro real estate before going into a meeting with a builder, the better. Find out what other homes in the neighborhood cost to build. Find existing homes that are comparable in size and features to the home you want to build and use that price in your negotiation. Talk to homeowners who worked with the same builder and find out what kind of deals they were offered and what they liked or didn’t like about their experience. A local real estate agent will have a wealth of helpful information.
Ask about Ways to Save.
Ask the builder if there are any discounts available, such as using their preferred lender or agreeing to use discontinued materials or items the builder already has on hand from another project.
Communicate Effectively.
Be clear about what you want. Ask questions. Ask for clarification if you don’t understand something. You can’t negotiate if you don’t have all the facts and if you aren’t willing to ask the hard questions. Good communicators are good negotiators.
Practice your Poker Face.
Do your best to keep your emotions in check. No matter how much you really want your home to look a certain way or to have certain features, no matter how much you really want a home designed by a certain builder in a certain neighborhood, showing your true feelings could mean you won’t be able to negotiate as effectively. You want the builder to think they have to work to earn your business, which may lead to better pricing and more upgrades.
Negotiate with the Help of an Experienced Greensboro Real Estate Agent
However expert or basic your negotiating skills, it’s helpful to work with a real estate agent when meeting with a custom home builder. Smith Marketing and Allen Tate Realtors® can help you negotiate and provide you with the information you need to get the best deal on custom home. Call today to schedule a consultation: (336) 215-7880.