How to negotiate the purchase price of a house

Negotiating the price of a property may seem complicated, but with the right information and attitude, you can get better terms without jeopardising the deal. Whether you are looking for your first home, a second home or an investment, these tips can help you feel more confident when dealing with the seller.

1. Do your research before negotiating the price of the property

Knowing the property market well gives you perspective and confidence. Knowing where you stand is the first step to making the right decisions.

Research the average price per square metre in the area and compare it with other similar properties.
Check whether the property has any outstanding charges or debts.

The more information you have, the more solid arguments you can make and the less you will have to rely on intuition.

2. Pay attention to communication

Words, gestures and tone of voice convey more than you think.

Maintain a respectful and calm tone.
Avoid coming across as rushed or overly insistent.

The way you speak is as important as what you say: projecting calm and empathy builds trust.

3. Spot opportunities to negotiate better

Not all sales start from the same point. There are factors that may indicate greater flexibility and allow you to better adapt your strategy.

Properties that have been on the market for a long time.
Homes with previous price reductions.
Empty properties that generate expenses for the owner.

These situations usually indicate that the seller is more willing to listen to offers.

4. Argue with market information, not opinions

When you base your arguments on facts and clear references, you show professionalism. This gives you credibility with the seller.

Use real market prices for the area.
Take energy efficiency and other technical reports into account.

An offer based on data sounds much more serious and professional than a simple ‘I think it's expensive’.

5. Use renovations as an advantage to buy cheaper

The details of a property's condition can become an opportunity. Looking beyond appearances helps you to better assess the whole.

Ask for renovation quotes if the property needs improvements.
Calculate how they affect the final value of the property.
Propose adjusting the price or that the seller pay for the renovations.

Renovation needs can be a key lever for getting a discount.

6. Choose the ideal time to buy your home

In the property market, timing can work in your favour. Knowing how to spot when sellers are more willing to sell can make all the difference.

After all, some sellers may want to close deals quickly.
In autumn or winter, when demand is lower, it is easier to negotiate.
If there are other interested parties, act quickly but calmly.

Timing can be as important as the offer itself.

7. Look beyond the price: other aspects to negotiate

Sometimes, additional conditions or benefits can be just as important as the final figure. Thinking holistically helps you find the right balance.

Agree on longer or more flexible delivery times.
Negotiate for some of the furniture to be included.
Ask the seller to cover certain expenses.

Sometimes, small concessions can be more valuable than a price reduction.

8. Formalise the purchase agreement correctly

Closing a deal in an orderly manner is essential to avoid misunderstandings. A good closing reinforces trust and ensures the result.

Draw up a clear and detailed proposal.
Include conditions, deadlines and commitments in writing.
Seek professional advice to ensure legal certainty.

Formalising correctly is the step that prevents problems in the future.

In conclusion, when buying a property

Negotiating is not haggling: it is finding a fair agreement for both parties. With information, composure and strategy, you can get better conditions and ensure that the transaction is beneficial and secure.

If you are thinking of buying a house or flat, contact our property advisors and we will help you find the best option and negotiate the price with guarantees.