New build - negotiating extras etc

[KiraCeleste]

Hi all! We’re currently looking at a new build which happens to be the last plot on the development. We’re using the builders’ help to sell scheme and are awaiting a valuation from their chosen estate agent. They’ve said they will pay 50% of the estate agent fees and take £10k off the asking price if we sell through them.

Were new to buying new builds so just wondering how and specifically when we should try and negotiate upgrades? The house doesn’t come with flooring, so we were thinking of asking for this. Turf and kitchen are included though.

Thanks in advance! 🙂

You can certainly try. Just be aware what sort of flooring they would be prepared to offer. Crap carpet and cheap laminate will end up annoying you. Are all white goods included?

Yep, flooring isn’t though and is going to cost a lot! I guess we could do it bit by bit. They’ve offered £15k off asking so far…

You should be in a very strong position to negotiate. We got stamp duty, flooring, turf, "upgraded kitchen" (higher grade appliances), and £3000 towards removals- we bought during a challenging market. Be warned there is a limit to what a lender will allow in terms of perks, yes the lender has a say!

Wow, good going! We’ve negotiated £15k off so far, I’m still trying for flooring too 😅 can I ask how you went about asking for the extras? We spoke to our broker today who mentioned that it can be problematic if the incentives top 5%, he didn’t think it would be a problem though as our mortgage will be fairly low LTV (around 50%).