When buying a house, there are several pros to consider, including the possibility of the seller paying closing costs, rate buydown, repairs, and improvements. Additionally, there may be opportunities for price negotiation, paying less than asking price, and avoiding the need to waive appraisals and inspections. Longer closing times and contingency contracts also offer more time to think and make decisions.
- Seller paid closing costs: Some sellers are willing to pay a portion or all of the closing costs, which can save the buyer thousands of dollars.
- Seller paid rate buydown: Sellers may also offer to pay for a rate buydown, which lowers the buyer’s mortgage interest rate, resulting in lower monthly payments and savings over the life of the loan.
- Seller paid repairs and improvements: In some cases, the seller may be willing to make repairs or improvements to the home before closing, which can save the buyer time and money.
- Price negotiation: Buyers can negotiate the price of the home, potentially paying less than the asking price.
- No need to waive appraisal: In a competitive market, buyers may be tempted to waive the appraisal to make their offer more appealing. However, in a buyer’s market, this may not be necessary, allowing the buyer to avoid the risk of overpaying for the home.
- Appraisal negotiations: If the appraisal comes in lower than the agreed-upon price, buyers can negotiate with the seller to lower the price or provide a credit to cover the difference.
- No need to waive inspections: Buyers should always have the home inspected before purchasing, but in some markets, they may be pressured to waive this contingency. In a buyer’s market, this is less likely, allowing the buyer to identify any issues with the home before closing.
- Inspection negotiation: If the inspection reveals issues with the home, the buyer can negotiate with the seller to make repairs or provide a credit to cover the cost of repairs.
- Time to think: In a buyer’s market, buyers have more time to think and make decisions, without the pressure of a competitive market.
- Contingency contracts: Buyers can include contingency contracts in their offer, which allow them to back out of the sale if certain conditions are not met, such as the appraisal or inspection.
- Longer to close: In a buyer’s market, sellers may be more willing to negotiate a longer closing period, allowing the buyer more time to prepare for the move and secure financing.
Overall, buying a house in a buyer’s market can offer several advantages for buyers, including the possibility of the seller paying closing costs, rate buydown, repairs, and improvements. Additionally, buyers can negotiate on price, avoid the need to waive appraisals and inspections, and take more time to think and make decisions.