seller and their agent.
BARGAINING CHIPS G CHIPS
Counteroffers by buyers sometimes include extras, such as appliances, because these are considered must-haves that are expensive to purchase new. As a seller, you can also use extras as bargaining chips. You can make counteroffers that include appliances, and other incentives, for the bidder to agree to a higher price. This is a particularly useful strategy when the demand for homes in your neighborhood is weak and prices are low. Consider what you’re willing to throw in to sweeten the deal, and what items are off-limits. Here are some items to consider using as leverage: • Major appliances: stove, fridge, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer • Custom-built furniture: bookcases or shelves • Area rugs that fit a room perfectly • Patio furniture: planters, benches, ornaments • Outdoor maintenance equipment: lawnmower, power washer, leaf vacuum • Recreational equipment: pool tables, above-ground pools, hot tubs, trampolines, swing sets • Offering to prepay taxes or closing costs • Offering a year of landscaping, pool cleaning, or maid service The decision-making process is fairly simple if you consider what items you are willing to part with based on how easy or difficult it will be to move them. Consider also how often you use movable items and the replacement cost. You can offer many incentives
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