Bangalore: Today, buyers have the luxury of being able to negotiate prices on homes. However, that strategy for negotiating changes when it comes to buying new, from a builder rather than purchasing a re-sale. One thing we should note is that particular builder's try to market in particular segment. He markets in terms of area. The super built area and the carpet area. As a customer most of us get cheated in terms of area. Before deciding on investing conduct a survey and find out what should be the exact price for the area you being offered. Cross check the carpet area and negotiate on that. The best time to approach the builder and negotiate is during the pre launch period before the construction starts. Don't get cheated with the quality of fittings that would be used. The builder might use technical terms that might sound new to us he can charge extra for a cheaper quality of material used. So have a check on it and negotiate. Draw a limit on the money you plan to deposit: If you can put less cash down, you'll have less risk if the developer doesn't perform like they should. Demand A Holdback Clause: Attempt to include a clause specifying that part of the purchase price will be set aside if the house isn't completed at the finish date, which you can utilize towards having the house finished. Demand for regular inspection of work: you want the builder to make your home according to your needs, then make it certain that you have the right for independent inspections and for you to check the property many times - not only just before closing. This may insure the work is being done correctly and punctually. Fix a Finish Date: Insist on including a date by which the home must be finished, or you've got the option to cancel the contract. Don't Settle For Less Than The Same Quality: If you are getting a home that copies the model, add a clause saying you will be getting the same or better quality than the model, not only minimum quality satisfactory for the local building codes. If you are looking at an existing inventory home, your negotiating strategy may be a bit different. First, determine when the house was completed. This is importance because builders factor in some interest (overhead expenses) to carry the house until sold. Always try to negotiate in person when possible. Share with the builder what aspects you'd like to negotiate and clearly spell out your terms. Start with your best case scenario terms, such as the least amount you'd like to pay, then go from there.