A New Home and an Exciting New Chapter in Nashville
One of my favorite parts of being a Realtor is helping my clients find the right home and knowing I've helped them make a smart financial decision along the way. I'm so excited to congratulate my buyer, Ashley, on the successful purchase of her beautiful new home on 28th Avenue North in Nashville, Tennessee!
Every home purchase has its own story, and this one is a great example of why having someone advocating for your best interests throughout the process can make such a difference.
Not only did Ashley find a home she loved, but we were also able to negotiate some meaningful financial benefits that made her purchase even better. And believe me, getting to the closing table took a little extra creativity!
A Personal Referral, Some Tough Negotiations, and a Little Creative Thinking
One of the things that made Ashley's purchase especially meaningful to me was that she was referred by a past client. There is truly no greater compliment than having someone you've worked with trust you enough to recommend you to someone they care about. My past clients have become some of my biggest cheerleaders and referral partners, and I am so grateful for those relationships!
But this transaction wasn't without its challenges.
We had already successfully negotiated for the seller to cover Ashley's closing costs, which was a fantastic win. However, when we got into the home inspection and repair negotiations, things became a little more complicated. In fact, we reached a point where the entire deal was in jeopardy.
That's when my husband, Keith Goeringer, really knocked it out of the park!
Keith is an experienced mortgage loan officer, and one of the things I appreciate most about him is his ability to think outside the box. He helped us look at the repair negotiations from a different perspective and come up with a creative way to structure the agreement that brought everyone back to the table.
And it worked!
Not only did Ashley keep the seller-paid closing costs we had already negotiated, but we also secured a purchase price reduction following the inspection.
Two big wins for Ashley, and a home purchase that almost didn't happen!
After more than two decades in real estate, I can tell you that not every transaction goes exactly as planned. Sometimes the real work happens behind the scenes, when you're navigating difficult conversations, finding solutions, and working to keep everyone moving toward the same goal.
That's why I always say that having the right people in your corner matters.
Negotiating More Than Just the Purchase Price
When most buyers think about negotiating on a home, they immediately think about the asking price. While the purchase price is certainly important, there are several other opportunities to negotiate terms that can save buyers money.
In Ashley's case, we successfully negotiated seller-paid closing costs and a purchase price reduction following the home inspection and repair negotiations.
Seller-paid closing costs can help reduce the amount of cash a buyer needs to bring to closing. Depending on the loan program and the terms of the contract, those savings can make a meaningful difference, especially when you're also budgeting for moving expenses, furniture, and settling into your new home.
The price reduction was another important part of the transaction. After reviewing the inspection findings, we worked through the repair negotiations and reached an agreement that better reflected the property's condition and Ashley's interests.
While a lower purchase price doesn't automatically guarantee immediate equity, it can help put a buyer in a stronger financial position from the beginning.
And in this particular transaction, the biggest win may have been finding a solution that allowed Ashley to move forward with the home she wanted.
Why the Home Inspection Is Such an Important Part of Buying a Home
I always remind my buyers that finding a home and getting an offer accepted are only part of the process. The home inspection is an opportunity to learn more about the property and better understand what you're purchasing.
Inspections can uncover issues that aren't immediately noticeable during a showing. Some findings may be minor maintenance items, while others could involve more significant repairs or expenses.
That's why I believe it's so important to carefully review the inspection report, understand which items deserve attention, and develop a reasonable negotiation strategy.
Depending on the property, the contract terms, and the seller's willingness to negotiate, buyers may be able to request repairs, a purchase price adjustment, or seller concessions.
And sometimes, as we experienced with Ashley's purchase, negotiations can reach a point where both sides need to look at things a little differently to find a workable solution.
Having experience is important, but so is being willing to think creatively and work collaboratively to get the deal done.
What Nashville Homebuyers Should Know About Negotiating in Today's Market
One thing I've learned throughout my real estate career is that every transaction is different. Some homes attract multiple offers, while others may offer buyers more flexibility when it comes to negotiating.
Factors such as the home's condition, asking price, time on the market, competing properties, and the seller's motivation can all influence the negotiation process.
For buyers considering Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, Spring Hill, or other Middle Tennessee communities, it's important not to assume that every listing price or contract term is set in stone.
There may be opportunities to negotiate closing cost assistance, repairs, or price adjustments, but knowing when and how to approach those conversations is key.
My job isn't simply to open doors and help you find a house. It's to help you evaluate the property, understand the local market, identify potential concerns, and negotiate terms that support your goals.
Sometimes the biggest value I bring to a transaction happens after we've found the right home.
And Ashley's purchase is a perfect example of that.
Congratulations, Ashley!
Ashley, thank you so much for trusting me to represent you throughout your home-buying journey! I'm especially thankful that a past client connected us, and I'm thrilled that we were able to work through the challenges and get you into your beautiful new Nashville home.
I can't wait to see you settle in and make this house your home. Wishing you many wonderful memories and happy years ahead!
And to all of my past clients who continue to refer their friends and family to me, thank you! Your trust, support, and referrals mean more than you know. Building lasting relationships is one of the things I love most about this business.
Thinking About Buying a Home in Nashville or Middle Tennessee?
Whether you're purchasing your first home, relocating to Middle Tennessee, or making your next move, I believe you deserve a Realtor who takes the time to understand your goals and looks out for your best interests from beginning to end.
I've been helping buyers and sellers navigate Middle Tennessee real estate since 2003, and one thing hasn't changed: the right home matters, but so do the terms of the deal.
If you're considering buying a home in Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, Spring Hill, Columbia, or the surrounding communities, I'd love to help you explore your options and make a confident, informed decision.
Kate Goeringer | Realtor® | Brick Realty
(615) 955-0450
kate@katemove.com
I sell beautiful homes to nice people!
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Home in Nashville, TN
1. Can buyers negotiate seller-paid closing costs when purchasing a home in Nashville, Tennessee?
Yes! Depending on market conditions, the seller's motivation, and the type of financing, Nashville homebuyers may be able to negotiate for the seller to contribute toward allowable closing costs. These concessions can help reduce the buyer's upfront expenses. The amount permitted depends on the loan program, down payment, and other lending requirements.
2. Can you negotiate a lower purchase price after a home inspection in Nashville, TN?
Absolutely. If a home inspection reveals concerns about the property's condition, buyers may have an opportunity to request repairs, negotiate a price reduction, or ask for other concessions. The outcome depends on the purchase agreement, inspection contingencies, and the willingness of both parties to reach an agreement. Working with an experienced Nashville buyer's agent can help you determine an appropriate strategy.
3. Why should I work with an experienced Realtor when buying a home in Nashville or Franklin, Tennessee?
An experienced local Realtor can help you understand neighborhood market conditions, evaluate comparable sales, identify potential concerns, and negotiate purchase terms. From the initial offer through inspections, appraisal, financing, and closing, having knowledgeable representation can help protect your interests and avoid costly surprises. As Ashley's Nashville home purchase demonstrates, creative problem-solving can make a difference when negotiations become challenging.