New research reveals that New Jersey buyers are flexing serious negotiation skills — and saving big time — even as home prices continue to climb.
If you’ve been house hunting in the Garden State recently, you already know it’s not for the faint of heart. Inventory is tight, mortgage rates are unpredictable, and that dream backyard might come with a hefty price tag. But here’s something to smile about — New Jersey homebuyers are out-negotiating most of the country, and walking away with real savings in their pockets.
According to new data from AgentAdvice.com, buyers in New Jersey are ranked among the top negotiators in the entire U.S., coming in fourth for the most money saved through savvy deal-making before closing the deal.
Let’s break it down…
💰 Home Prices Are Up — But So Are Smart Buyer Strategies
Over the last 18 months, home prices across New Jersey have jumped by 12.5%, and it’s not just in one region. From suburban Cape May homes to Bergen County colonials, the market has tightened, and prices have followed.
One of the main reasons? Low inventory. Many homeowners who locked in historically low mortgage rates over the past few years are choosing to sit tight rather than face today’s elevated interest rates. That’s creating an imbalance — high demand, low supply — which is always a recipe for rising costs.
🏆 How New Jersey Buyers Are Winning the Housing Game
Despite these challenges, New Jersey buyers aren’t backing down. Agent Advice’s nationwide survey of 3,000 recent homebuyers found that more than half (54%) walked away from a deal when sellers wouldn’t budge on price.
That determination paid off.
Buyers in the Garden State are saving an average of $19,634 per home purchase, simply by negotiating before they signed the dotted line. With the average New Jersey home listing at $503,432, knocking nearly $20K off the final price is no small feat — that’s a new roof, a kitchen upgrade, or a solid jump-start on future mortgage payments.
🏠 Why This Matters for 2025 Buyers
If you’re thinking about buying in 2025 — or just getting started on the home hunt — here’s the takeaway: know your worth, know the market, and don’t be afraid to negotiate. Even in a seller-friendly environment, buyers still have leverage, especially when they’re informed, patient, and ready to walk away if the deal doesn’t feel right.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Hoboken or trading up in Cherry Hill, local agents say the best strategy is to be clear on your budget, do your research, and stay firm on your goals. With a little strategy and a lot of patience, savings are absolutely still on the table.
🛍️ Make a Weekend Out of It
Looking for a fun (and productive) weekend idea? Take a trip to explore neighborhoods you’re interested in — and check out nearby farmer’s markets, coffee shops, and local boutiques. Whether you’re browsing open houses or just gathering inspiration, it’s a great way to get a feel for a potential home base.
Plus, spring weekends in New Jersey were made for strolling and dreaming big.
📝 Final Thoughts
Sure, the housing market is tough — but New Jersey buyers are tougher. In a state known for its hustle and heart, it’s no surprise that locals are showing the rest of the country how to negotiate like pros. So if you’re ready to dive into home buying, bring your A-game. Because in the Garden State, we don’t just buy homes — we make deals.
Want us to round up the best neighborhoods to buy in this spring? Or need a local agent rec? We’ve got you. Drop us a message or stay tuned for next week’s Explore New Jersey Weekend spotlight.