When a home has been sitting on the market for a while, most buyers instinctively think: “Let’s offer under asking and try to score a deal.” It makes sense – and yes, price matters. But what if there’s a smarter move that could save you more than a simple price cut? Let’s break it down with a real-world scenario:
A home is listed at $500,000
The typical strategy? Offer $485,000 and hope the seller bites.
The better strategy? Offer full price—but ask the seller to cover $15,000 in closing cost credits to buy down your interest rate.
Why does this work better? Because rate > price when it comes to your monthly payment and long-term savings.
Let’s say you’re financing $475,000.
At a 6.75% rate, your monthly payment is about $3,081.
If you buy your rate down to 4.75% with that $15K, your payment drops to $2,482.
That’s almost $600/month back in your pocket. Over 5 years, you’ve saved over $35,000.
These figures are for demonstration purposes only. Please consult with a licensed mortgage loan officer or broker for details specific to your situation.
The takeaway? You don’t always need to lowball the price—you just need to shift the strategy. Want help running the numbers based on your budget and goals? Let’s connect, and I’ll walk you through how this works in today’s market. Because in real estate, it’s not just about what you offer—it’s about how you structure the offer.
With over 7 years of experience, I’m proud to be a multi-million-dollar top producer and a recognized leader in Sarasota real estate. As a Top 2% agent in Sarasota/Manatee, a 2025 Realtor® to Watch, and a TV host on The American Dream TV, I combine award-winning marketing, expert negotiation, and a powerful network to deliver real results. As a second-generation Sarasotan, I know this city inside and out—from its historic charm to its vibrant, evolving neighborhoods. Real estate is not just my profession—it’s my passion. I’ve built my business on trust, deep local knowledge, and lasting relationships with happy clients. Whether you’re buying, selling, or relocating, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s chat—my direct line is 941-284-0283.
