The terms "bargaining" and "negotiating" are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences, especially regarding real estate matters or the property market.

If you have seen a Kenyan mother bargaining, then you know how bargaining is deeply ingrained in Kenyan culture, especially among middle—and lower-income groups. For many Kenyans, bargaining is more than just a way to save money; it is an expected part of any selling process, a ritual that often shows the buyer’s wit and tenacity.

Bargaining usually refers to a direct exchange where the buyer and seller negotiate the price, often to get a significant discount. This is mostly common in informal markets, which are less structured and more straightforward.

On the other hand, negotiating property prices involves a more strategic and formal process that includes other terms beyond just the price, working to arrive at a mutually beneficial agreement. To negotiate effectively for a house for lease or sale, people do not just discuss the house price; they also cover terms of payment, move-in dates, repair responsibilities, and included amenities.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how we can use a bit of the Kenyan mother's wit in bargaining to negotiate your way to the best real estate deal.

The Buyer’s Power Move: ''Knowledge is Power.''

To negotiate property prices effectively, understand the current market trends in the Kenyan real estate market. This knowledge can significantly impact your leverage in handling property negotiations. Review recent sales and analyze property prices for comparable properties in your preferred location.

Real estate agents often have access to a wealth of market information, so working closely with one can give you a sense of reasonable offers. Obtain a property valuation report to confirm the asking price and assess if it matches the market’s trends. Knowing what other similar properties sell for is key when negotiating house prices.

Establish Your Financial Plan

Financial planning is crucial in strengthening your position when negotiating house prices. It helps you clearly define your budget range, enabling you to negotiate property prices from a firm position. Knowing your limits prevents overspending and gives you the confidence to walk away if the price exceeds your comfort zone.

Financial planning often includes securing mortgage pre-approval, a crucial step that shows sellers you are a serious buyer with financing in place. Sellers are more likely to negotiate with financially organized buyers. They see you as low-risk, which can give you leverage in pushing for a better or lower price, especially in a competitive market. This can lead them to consider price adjustments to close the deal quickly.

Analyze how much you can comfortably allocate for the down payment, mortgage loan, and other costs beyond the asking price. Aside from the listing price, factor in legal fees, closing costs, monthly payments, and potential repair costs if you’re purchasing an older home, a financial plan ensures you know exactly what you can afford.

Setting the Scene - Location

Meeting in a neutral, comfortable place creates a balanced setting. It can be a cafe with soft music or a back office with comfortable seating and minimal distractions.

Try to keep negotiations to around 30-45 minutes. Anything longer, and everyone starts losing focus (and patience). Let the seller think they’re “almost there” to keep the momentum.

The Art of Body Language: Non-Verbal Confidence

The art of body language strengthens your negotiation skills. Try subtly matching the seller’s tone and posture. This is known as “mirroring,” which builds subconscious rapport.

Keeping steady but relaxed eye contact shows you are interested but not desperate. Leaning in (But Not Too Much) when making key points shows engagement while sitting back every so often gives you an air of casual confidence. Good posture implies, “I am interested but not here to be taken for a ride.”

The Negotiation Lingo

Establish an initial price range early. If you start the negotiation with a reasonably lower figure, the seller’s counteroffer tends to stay within the realm of your anchor. Try to use more questions than statements. Ask questions that lead to your ideal answer; for instance, instead of saying, “I need this price,” try, “What is the best price you can give me?”

The negotiation lingo should maintain a formal tone, but you can use friendly terms like “collaborative,” “fair,” and “balanced.” People love a sense of unity; sellers won’t feel backed into a corner, often making them more flexible.

Secrets of Timing: When and How to Pause

Silence in a negotiation is a powerful tool. After the seller’s offer, hold the silence a few seconds longer than usual. This gives the impression you are carefully considering their terms, making them a bit nervous and more likely to make a concession.

Note: Try to save your best offer for the end. The seller might be inclined to compromise just to wrap things up.

Tips: The Dos and Don’ts of Smooth Negotiations

Market knowledge gives you better understand the property's true value and the seller’s motivations. Instead of quoting “$250,000,” say, “My analysis and research show properties like this go for around $250,000, so that is my ceiling.” It is specific and shows thought.

Always keep the energy light and optimistic. The negotiation should have a bit of humor, which can defuse tension and make the seller more open to discussion.

Going too low right off the bat can offend the seller. Instead, go slightly under your ideal range to leave some space for them to negotiate up.

Don’t Show All Your Cards: Sharing your top budget limit right away can corner you, giving the seller too much control.

Don’t Make It Too Personal: Focus on the transaction, not on your personal needs or desires.

Conclusion

In conclusion, negotiating house prices in Kenya's real estate market requires a combination of research, strategy, and patience. Understanding current market trends and the property valuation report can help prospective buyers make reasonable offers that reflect both comparable sales and similar properties in the preferred location.

Utilizing the expertise of real estate agents and, if possible, consulting with financial advisors can be advantageous, especially for first-time buyers navigating the home-buying process.

Trusting us as your real estate agent ensures you get the best deal. Your dream home ownership is a key away at a favorable price.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much lower can you negotiate a house price?

In stable markets, offering 5-10% below the asking price is common. The amount you can negotiate depends on factors such as market conditions, the condition of the property, and the seller’s motivation.

How do you negotiate an overpriced house?

When negotiating an overpriced house, gather data on similar properties in the area to demonstrate the discrepancy in the asking price. Point out any required renovations and estimate their costs, justifying your lower offer. Expressing interest and financial readiness appeals to the sellers. If the seller is not flexible, be prepared to walk away.

What are the legal fees for buying a house in Kenya?

Legal fees in Kenya typically range from 1% to 2% of the property's purchase price, based on the Law Society of Kenya’s guidelines. This covers services like drafting the sale agreement, processing documents, and title transfer. Additional costs may include stamp duty (2% for rural land or 4% for urban land) and registration fees, which vary depending on the property’s value.

How do you negotiate a price well?

Research the property’s history, market value, and surrounding area to negotiate effectively. This information strengthens your case. Set your budget and stick to it, listen to the seller's needs, stay polite and professional, and use timing strategically.

References

Dhir, R. (n.d.). Negotiation: Stages and strategies. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/negotiation.asp

Mind, M. (2024, April 8). What is the difference between negotiation & bargaining?. LinkedIn.

Staff, P. (2024, September 13). 10 hard-bargaining tactics & negotiation skills. https://www.pon.harvard.edu/daily/batna/10-hardball-tactics-in-negotiation/

Sussex Publishers. (n.d.). The psychology of negotiation, explained. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/finding-new-home/202012/the-psychology-negotiation-explained#:~:text=Research%20on%20the%20psychology%20of,1.