When you are in the process of constructing a home for your family, there are a lot of negotiations that will need to take place between yourself and your new home builder. The main point of negotiation tends to be the contract and, as money is involved, this can be a highly trying and lengthy process. So, how do you negotiate with your builder?
First, you will need to ensure that you receive an estimate (in writing) from the builder, outlining all of the various costs of your project, from the materials and labour to permits and all the other expenses. If you wanted, you could tell your new home builder that you are happy to purchase the materials yourself, as this can help to reduce the cost of the estimate they have given you (unless, of course, the builder receives discounts from certain suppliers). You could also offer to complete some of the work yourself, such as varnishing and painting, as this can take days off the builder’s timeline.
You could also ask the builder whether there is anything that they can do that will reduce the costs of the overall project. Some will allow you to extend the project or change the start date in order to do this (allowing the new home builder to work when they have time or to work during the least busy period of the year). Then there is bargaining for a deal on your project. If you know people who are looking to start construction in the near future, offer the builder leads. You could also offer them advertising space at the front of your home.
Ultimately, there are plenty of ways to negotiate with a new home builder, you just have to know what the best way to do this is. If you think you can offer the builder something, in the way of leads (which increases their business) or advertising, take this road. Otherwise, look at other ways to reduce the overall costs of the project.
