More Homes, More Leverage: Why Buyers Are Gaining Power in Today’s Market
You may have heard whispers that more homes are hitting the market right now and it’s true. While the level of inventory can vary depending on your neighborhood, the overall trend is pointing toward a more balanced market. And with that shift, sellers are becoming a bit more open to compromise.
Translation? As a buyer, you may be gaining back some much-needed negotiating power. That could mean a better price, a few extra perks, or terms that fit your timeline—if you know how to play your cards right.
Why the Right Agent Matters Now More Than Ever
Negotiating can feel tricky, especially if you’re not sure what’s reasonable to ask for. That’s where your agent steps in as your behind-the-scenes strategist.
According to the National Association of Realtors, the second most important thing buyers want help with—right after finding the right home—is negotiating the terms of the sale. And for good reason. A great agent knows what’s common in your local market, what sellers are saying yes to, and what might be a dealbreaker. Having that kind of insight can help you stay competitive without leaving value on the table.
What Can You Actually Negotiate?
More than you might think. Here are a few common areas where buyers are seeing more flexibility:
Sale Price: With affordability still a big challenge, more buyers are pushing back on list prices—and some sellers are adjusting.
Closing Costs: These can be thousands of dollars out of pocket, but it’s possible to ask the seller to help cover some (or even all) of them, especially if their home’s been sitting on the market.
Home Warranties: If you’re nervous about potential maintenance costs after move-in, a seller-paid home warranty can bring peace of mind—and it’s a relatively small cost for them.
Repairs: Based on the inspection, you might ask the seller to fix certain issues, or offer credit toward the work. If they’re unwilling, you could negotiate a price drop to make room in your budget.
Appliances & Fixtures: Love that fridge or washer and dryer? Ask for it! In many cases, sellers are open to leaving appliances or even select furniture behind.
Closing Timeline: Need to move quickly or stretch things out? The closing date is negotiable too, and sometimes finding a timeline that works for both parties is the secret to sealing the deal.
Of course, not every seller will say yes to everything. That’s why leaning on your agent’s expertise is crucial. They’ll know which levers to pull and how to approach each situation to get the best possible result.
Let's Make the Market Work for You
The truth is, you don’t have to wait for the “perfect market” to make a smart move, you just need the right strategy. And that’s what we’re here for.
Whether you’re worried about negotiating, unsure what’s possible, or just want a clearer plan, let’s talk it through. The right home and the right deal might be closer than you think.
