Negotiate a Better Builder Price

Has anyone got tips on how to negotiate a better build price from a builder? I've worked through the process and I'm getting the quote where I want it, I just want to push for a discount now.

Comments

  • +3

    Did you try flirting with them?

  • +1

    Did you tell them you are going to try and price match it at office works?

  • +1

    My two cents - my experience with builders is that sure you may negotiate a discount here but they will recuperate the costs elsewhere down the line anyway (possibly through add-ons etc).

    Definitely still ask for the discount but it's far more important to check your inclusions and scope

    1. Offer to Pay in eneloops
    2. Check if the builder is running a Amex Statement credit promo
    3. Offer to Pay in gift cards purchased at a discount through various ozb deals
  • You mean a home builder? They might, but it doesnt mean anything becuase they make you pay$10-40k after you sign your contract, in so-called other fees not known to you.
    If you are talking about a tradesman, maybe if you offer incentive, like paying cash upfront.
    For these sorts of jobs, better to shop for people with good references.

    • If you are talking about a tradesman, maybe if you offer incentive, like paying cash upfront.

      Never pay upfront … you're guaranteed to get screwed.

  • As others have posted, negotiating a discount on the job will mean the builder will recoup the money elsewhere or cut corners on the job. We recently redid our courtyard garden, I got a few quotes, and then went with the builder we thought would do the best job. He wasn't the cheapest, which will probably get me thrown out of Ozbargain, but I thought the price was roughly what I was expecting. The builder did a really good job and didn't get all huffy when the council screwed us around. As others have said, make sure you understand exactly what is, and isn't included; that is more important than screwing a few extra bucks out of the deal.

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