Buyers Have More Negotiating Power: Here's How to Use it

If you’ve been following the real estate market, you may have noticed a subtle but significant shift. In many areas, housing inventory is on the rise, creating a more balanced environment between buyers and sellers. While conditions still vary by region, this trend marks a welcome change for today’s buyers — particularly when it comes to negotiating. 

In a more balanced market, sellers are often more open to concessions. That means buyers have an opportunity to negotiate not just on price, but also on terms, timelines, and added value. However, knowing what’s negotiable — and how to approach those conversations strategically — isn’t always straightforward. That’s why working with a knowledgeable real estate professional is so critical. 

According to recent insights from Keeping Current Matters and data from the National Association of Realtors, one of the top reasons buyers rely on their agents is for guidance when negotiating the terms of a purchase. An experienced agent brings deep local market knowledge and current data to the table — both of which are key to crafting a strong, informed offer. 

Here are several areas where buyers can potentially negotiate in today’s market: 

1. Purchase Price

Increased inventory means less competition, and homes that are priced too high may sit longer. This gives buyers the ability to negotiate more effectively, often securing a purchase price that aligns more closely with market value.  

2. Closing Costs

Closing costs typically range from 2–5% of the purchase price and cover essential services such as appraisals, title insurance, and lender fees. In 2024, seller-paid closing costs were among the most common concessions — a trend that continues in many markets today. Asking a seller to contribute can meaningfully reduce a buyer’s out-of-pocket expenses. 

3. Home Warranties

A home warranty can provide coverage for unexpected repairs during the first year of ownership. Buyers may negotiate for the seller to cover the cost of this protection — a relatively small expense for the seller that can provide significant peace of mind for the buyer. 

4. Inspection Repairs or Credits

Following the home inspection, buyers have the opportunity to negotiate repairs, seller credits, or even price adjustments. Sellers may prefer to offer a financial credit in lieu of completing repairs themselves, giving buyers more control over how and when those items are addressed. 

5. Appliances and Fixtures

Items such as washers, dryers, and refrigerators — while not always included in the sale — can often be negotiated. If these features are important to your move-in readiness or lifestyle, they are worth discussing with your agent. 

6. Closing Timeline

Flexibility around the closing date can also be a valuable negotiation point. Whether you need to move quickly or require additional time to coordinate logistics, sellers are often willing to adjust the timeline to accommodate a smooth transaction. 

The Bottom Line 

Effective negotiation is about much more than just offering a lower price — it’s about understanding the market, knowing what’s customary, and leveraging the right strategy. Having a trusted real estate advisor by your side ensures you’re making informed decisions and approaching negotiations with confidence. 

Thanks to Keeping Current Matters for their valuable insights. If you’re considering a home purchase, this may be an opportune moment to enter the market with renewed negotiating power. We’d be honored to help you navigate your options and secure the best possible terms. 

📈 March Market Update – Stillwater & Hudson School Districts
Here's a quick snapshot of what's happening in our local real estate market:

🏡 New Listings

• Up 21.5% compared to March 2024

• Up 9.3% compared to last month (Feb 2025)

💰 Average Sale Prices

• Slight increase of 1.5% since February

• Down 5.4% compared to March 2024

⏳ Average Days on Market

• Stillwater: 82 days

• Hudson: 61 days

• Overall average: 71.5 days

If you’d like a personalized consultation or more detailed market insights, we’re here to help. Let’s connect and explore how to turn today’s market conditions into your advantage.