If you’ve been watching the local housing market lately, you may have noticed a change in the air. Inventory is growing, and with that, buyers are beginning to gain a little more ground. That’s good news if you’re house-hunting—because it means you may now have more room to negotiate.
But negotiation isn’t just about haggling over price. With the right strategy and a savvy agent by your side, you can unlock perks, save money, and walk away with terms that work better for you.
Let’s break down what that can look like in today’s market—and how to use it to your advantage.
1. Why Having a Local Agent Is Key to Winning Negotiations
Negotiating a real estate deal isn’t just about knowing what to ask for—it’s about knowing how and when to ask. That’s where a skilled agent makes all the difference.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR): The top two things buyers want from their agent are: 1. Help negotiating the terms of the sale 2. Help negotiating the price.
At Carolina Coastal Group, our team lives and breathes the Carolina Coast market. We’ve got our finger on the pulse of what’s working, what’s not, and how to get you the best deal without pushing sellers too far.
2. You Can (and Should) Negotiate the Sale Price
When affordability is tight, every dollar counts. And with more homes on the market, some sellers are becoming more realistic about their asking price.
Pro Tip: If a home’s been sitting longer than average, the seller may be more open to a price reduction—especially if you come in with a strong, pre-approved offer.
3. Ask the Seller to Cover Closing Costs
Closing costs typically add up to 2–5% of a home’s purchase price. That’s a big chunk of cash at the finish line—but the good news is, many sellers are open to covering some or all of those expenses.
Fun Fact: According to NAR, covering buyer closing costs was the most common seller concession in 2024.
4. Don’t Overlook Home Warranties
Worried about maintenance surprises after you move in? Ask the seller to pay for a one-year home warranty.
This small cost to them can be a huge peace-of-mind win for you—and it’s often a concession sellers are willing to offer, especially in a slower market.
5. Use Repairs as a Leverage Point
After your inspection, you might uncover needed repairs. You have a few smart options:
- Ask the seller to make the repairs
- Request a price reduction
- Have them cover more of your closing costs
Tip: If the seller’s timeline is tight, they may prefer to negotiate on price rather than handle repairs themselves.
6. Include Fixtures or Appliances in the Deal
Eyeing that stainless-steel fridge or washer and dryer? In many cases, you can negotiate to have those included.
Sellers may be open to leaving behind:
- Appliances
- Window treatments
- Even some furniture!
This is a great way to save on moving costs—and skip buying new items right away.
Bonus Tip: Be Flexible With the Closing Date
Timing can be a big help in negotiations. If you’re able to work with the seller’s ideal closing date—whether that means speeding things up or giving them more time—it could tip the scales in your favor elsewhere in the deal.
Let’s Build a Winning Strategy Together
Negotiation is part art, part strategy—and having a local expert on your side makes all the difference. At Carolina Coastal Group, we know how to structure offers that protect your interests, win seller cooperation, and still get you into the home you love.
📍 Whether you’re buying in Oak Island, Southport, or anywhere along the coast, our team is here to help you move forward with confidence.
Got questions about negotiating your next home purchase?
Let’s talk! We’ll put together a customized plan to help you get the most value—without the stress.