Navigating Price and Terms in Farm Property Purchase with Your Real Estate Agent

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January 18, 2024
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Discover how to understand your options and negotiate with sellers when purchasing a farm with a real estate agent.

Navigating Price and Terms in Farm Property Purchase with Your Real Estate Agent

·      Start with Farm Property Valuation

Before any negotiations take place, you have to go through the valuation process. The value of a farm is commonly influenced by a myriad of factors like location, acreage, soil quality, infrastructure, proximity to markets, and the potential for agricultural expansion.  

·      Set Your Budget and Priorities

Negotiating the price and getting a fantastic deal when purchasing a farm is a great strategy, but bidding low in order to get a property you cannot afford is not the correct approach. Determine your budget, and evaluate your financial capacity by factoring in the down payment, loan eligibility, and potential monthly payments vs the production income. 

·      Open Communication with Your Real Estate Agent

Open and transparent communication with your real estate agent is key to helping them understand what elements you are willing to settle on and what are your absolute must-haves.

·      Initial Offer Strategy

Delivering an offer that reflects the property's market value while aligning with your budget is sometimes tricky. Considering that the offer often includes not only the price but also contingencies such as inspections, appraisals, and financing, making it attractive to the seller is still critical. Collaborate with your agent to strike a balance between a competitive offer and protecting your best interests.

·      Respond to Counteroffers

If you bid way below the list price, it will be expected that the seller will respond with a counteroffer. Assess which terms are negotiable and non-negotiable based on your priorities and the property's value. Formulate counter offers strategically, aiming for a compromise that benefits both parties. 

·      Leverage Property Inspections

Property inspections provide an opportunity to uncover hidden issues that could impact the value or most importantly, your decision to proceed with the purchase. You have to understand the inspection results and their potential implications before making any further requests to negotiate.

·      Timing and Closing

Negotiating the timing of the transaction's closing can influence the opportunity to purchase, as it impacts both parties. Collaborate with your real estate agent to determine a timeline that aligns with your needs while considering the seller's circumstances.

Negotiating the price and terms of a farm property requires the assistance and the knowledge of a broker very experienced in this type of real estate transaction. This is one of the main benefits when selecting United Country Real Estate as your representation. Our agents have not only outstanding experience in rural real estate but also first-hand knowledge of agriculture, land and raising stock. Explore more on how to navigate price and terms in farm property purchases with your real estate agent by reading the full article on our dedicated farm property page.