Want to Entice Buyers with Favorable Contract Options?
Want to Entice Buyers with Favorable Contract Options?
In today’s competitive real estate market, standing out from the crowd is crucial if you want to sell your home quickly and at a good price. Buyers have many options, and to catch their attention, your property needs to offer something that makes it more attractive than the rest. Sometimes, what makes the difference isn’t just the home itself, but the creative and favorable contract terms you can provide.
Here are 12 options to consider that can make your home the irresistible choice. You don’t need to use them all—select the ones that best fit your situation and appeal most to potential buyers:
Offer a Home Warranty
Purchasing a home warranty for the buyer is an added layer of security that covers potential future issues. It signals to buyers that you’re confident in the condition of your property, reducing their concerns about unexpected repairs.
Assist with Closing Costs
Many buyers are cash-strapped and more focused on reducing out-of-pocket costs than their monthly mortgage payments. Offering to cover some or all of the closing costs can be the nudge they need to choose your home over others.
Provide Financing Help
Consider offering seller financing or buying down the buyer’s mortgage interest rate for the first year. Lower monthly payments, especially in that first year, can be a major draw for buyers worried about affordability.
Cover Utility Costs
Paying the first 6-12 months of utility bills can be especially appealing to first-time buyers looking to reduce their initial expenses. This gesture adds immediate value while easing the burden during their transition.
Pay HOA or Condo Fees
Covering a year of homeowners association (HOA) or condominium fees can be a major incentive, especially for buyers attracted to properties with shared amenities but who worry about ongoing monthly costs.
Pre-Pay for Amenities
Consider pre-paying for recreational memberships like a pool, golf club, or fitness center. Offering a year of cable TV or streaming subscriptions can also be an enticing extra that adds lifestyle perks to the deal.
Offer a Moving Allowance
Covering a buyer’s moving expenses or offering an allowance toward moving costs can make your home more attractive, especially for buyers relocating from out of town.
Provide Cash for Window Treatments or Redecorating
Offer a decorating allowance for new carpet, drapes, or window treatments. This allows buyers to personalize the space according to their taste and may help them envision your property as their future home.
Handle Lawn Maintenance
If your property has a large yard, a year’s worth of lawn care or even throwing in a riding mower can appeal to buyers who want the benefits of a big yard without the hassle.
Rent a Dock or Boat Slip
For waterfront properties, offer to rent a boat slip or dock for a year. This can be a particularly attractive perk for buyers with boats or those who have always dreamed of living the water lifestyle.
Reimburse Buyer for Points
Offering to pay the buyer’s points (the upfront fees to reduce their mortgage rate) can have a double benefit: not only do buyers save on points themselves, but they may also get tax benefits since the IRS allows deductions for seller-paid points.
Price Below Market Value
Price your home slightly below comparable properties in the area. Supporting this with a professional appraisal not only proves your home’s value but can create the perception of a deal too good to pass up.
Make Your Home the Sweetest Deal on the Market
These creative incentives can be game-changers in a competitive market. You don’t need to offer all 12 options—select the strategies that make the most sense for your goals and your target buyers. By tailoring these options to suit your ideal buyer’s needs, you’re setting your home up for a faster sale at the best possible price. Want more ideas? Contact us to learn how we can create a customized marketing program that makes your home stand out and sells quickly—no matter the market conditions.