New build,Negotiating extras

[marriedthegambler]

Anyone who's bought a new build. Did you negotiate any extras (free) and how did you go about it?
Been told to wait until just about to sign then ask what they can do to improve the offer. Thing is there's so many stages you sign things at so not sure where to go in!

We've just reserved a new build with Bellway, managed to get 10k worth of extras which include upgrades to kitchen and bathrooms, £4k worth of stamp duty paid and also a deposit contribution.

We viewed the showhome, then just asked what they'd do for us if they can't reduce the price by 10k.

Was it sitting waiting? I've noticed with ones that are ready to move in just now they'll offer more as they want it sold.

It does depend how much they need your business. Our house was the last of its type on our estate so we didn't have a lot of bargaining power as there were other customers waiting to snap it up if we fell through. On the other hand our neighbours got a price reduction and lots of extras as their type of house was struggling to sell.

I would say as well, don't be scared to ask for extras and freebies after you've signed, either just chancing your arm or as compensation for poor service. We had our garden levelled and turfed in our old place as we had a leak at our front door. In our new place we got the house painted white as compensation for a muck up with dates. No harm in asking. And speak to your neighbours. If they've got a freebie ask if you can get it too. They're more likely to give it if they've set a precedent. Also - ask on site once you're in, rather than the sales office as they're also more likely to help you out. In my experience anyway.

@marriedthegambler no, it won't be ready to move into until the end of January

Thanks for advice! I don't have a clue about these things. Didn't even realise we'd be out on site with anyone.
Ours is up but not available for a while. We've been told we can't get any of the optional extras as it's already built.
We are really only looking for carpets and fittings.