Home Buyer Incentives

Home Buyer Incentives

The current real estate slowdown has brought out some of the most unusual buyer incentives we've ever seen, from fully paid week-end getaway vacations to brand new cars.  When it comes to buyer incentives however, the simple fact is — money talks.  If you're trying to sell a home in this down market, here are five great buyer incentives that really work.

Pick up the closing costs.  This is especially effective for first time home buyers who are adding closing costs to the amount they financed for the home - it eliminates thirty years worth of interest on those few thousand dollars.

Contribute to the down payment (if allowed by the buyer's lender).  Take whatever you would have spent on an incentive and offer it as down payment assistance.  When you consider that a higher down payment can result in a lower interest rate, a contribution to the down payment could be a powerful incentive.

Pick up the tab for several months of homeowner insurance.  Insurance companies will often discount premiums paid in advance, so you'll get a bargain price.  For home buyers, it means extra cash in those first few months when they'll be settling in and need it most.

Pay for a home warranty for a year.  For home buyers who are already paying insurance and all the other related costs of a new home, the added peace of mind will be invaluable.