Can the list price of new construction be negotiated?

Yes, prices can be negotiated, however, it’s highly variable and depends on market conditions. It can be difficult to negotiate the sales price with a developer because their prices are based on fixed construction costs and if homes are selling, it can be very difficult to negotiate off of full asking price. On the other hand, if sales are slow, builders will often negotiate, or to maintain price integrity for future sales, offer financing incentives not reflected in the final purchase price. As for timing, builders are more likely to be flexible on price at the very beginning and the very end of a development projects sales cycle. Early on, most developers want to sell the first several homes quickly so that the project picks up momentum. Later, developers may be more inclined to accept lower offers when only a few units remain. If negotiating the price doesn’t work, buyers commonly negotiate for better amenities, such as upgraded carpet or light fixtures or possibly lot location. Developers will rarely pass up a deal over several hundred dollars worth of carpeting, for example.