Buying a house is expensive. You probably try to negotiate a lower price with the current owner, ask the real estate agent to reduce his or her commission rate or reduce some of the fees, and work with a mortgage broker to be sure you get the best terms possible. Another way you can save money on how much you spend on your new home is with rebates. Depending on whether you are buying an existing home or having a brand new one constructed, there are different rebates available. Here are a few to look for.

Real Estate Agent Rebates

When the market is flush with home for sale, and not as many people looking to buy, real estate agents tend to get a bit creative. One of the ways they try to increase their sales, and their commission, is by offering rebates. There may be stipulations or requirements to receive the rebate, such as the home you buy must be one for which they are the seller's agent as well, or perhaps it must have been on the market for a specified amount of time.

Builder Rebates

If you are thinking about having your next home built for you, check out the different builders to see if they offer any rebates. Again, there will probably be some requirements involved to qualify. One common stipulation includes having the house built on property that you buy from the builder. This may be in a planned community or it could be some random empty lot the builder bought. Sometimes, the rebate requires a specified builder and agent combination. They work together and split the cost of the rebate offered.

Energy Efficiency Rebates

Government agencies and utility companies may offer rebates when you build a new home using specific energy saving and efficient appliances and materials. You may find that by having solar panels or a geothermal heating and cooling system will not only save you money on your utility bills but will get you a rebate as well. Of course, the rebates are not available for you is you purchase an existing home that has these options. However, you may be able to have an existing home remodeled to include the new energy saving devices and be rebated for the work done.

Sometimes rebates are highly advertised and seem to fall into your lap, then sometimes you have to do a bit of research to get them. Don't be afraid to talk with a real estate agent, such as from Gr8day Realty, about them.

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