Can I Negotiate with a Seller to Cover Closing Costs in Today’s Market?

Greg Powell
Sep 2
2 min read

Buying a home in Central Oregon comes with more than just the purchase price—there are also closing costs, which typically range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount. For a $450,000 home in Redmond or Bend, that could mean an additional $9,000–$22,500 out of pocket. Understandably, many buyers wonder: Can I negotiate with a seller to cover some (or all) of these costs?

The short answer: Yes, but it depends on the market conditions and how you structure your offer.

1. The Central Oregon Market in 2025

In 2025, the Central Oregon housing market remains competitive but has cooled compared to the frenzy of a few years ago. Inventory in Bend is still tight, but Redmond and Prineville offer more options under $500,000.

This shift gives buyers a little more negotiating power—including the chance to request seller concessions like closing cost credits.

2. How Seller Concessions Work

A seller concession is when the seller agrees to pay part of the buyer’s closing costs. This can cover:

Loan origination fees
Title insurance
Escrow fees
Prepaid taxes and insurance

Instead of lowering the purchase price, a seller may offer to cover $5,000–$10,000 in costs, making the home more affordable for buyers without cutting into their equity.

3. When It Works Best

You’re more likely to get closing costs covered when:

The home has been on the market for 30+ days.
It’s priced slightly above comparable homes.
The seller is motivated (e.g., relocating, downsizing).
You’re flexible on other terms (closing date, inspections, etc.).

In Redmond and Prineville, where there’s more inventory, sellers may be more open to concessions than in Bend’s hot neighborhoods.

4. Strategies for Negotiating Closing Costs

Ask your agent to frame it as a win-win—“We’ll give you your price if you help with our costs.”
Consider a slightly higher offer in exchange for seller credits (works well if the home appraises at value).
Don’t wait too long—bring it up in your initial offer so it’s part of the negotiation from the start.

5. Alternatives If the Seller Says No

Ask your lender about lender credits in exchange for a slightly higher interest rate.
Look into down payment assistance programs available in Oregon.
Negotiate for repairs or upgrades instead of direct closing cost coverage.

In 2025’s Central Oregon housing market, negotiating for seller-paid closing costs is possible—and sometimes the smartest move for buyers. With more balance between buyers and sellers, especially outside of Bend, you may find sellers more willing to help sweeten the deal.

FAQs

Q: Can FHA and VA buyers ask for closing cost help?

A: Yes—FHA allows up to 6% and VA loans allow up to 4% in seller concessions.

Q: Does asking for closing costs make my offer weaker?

A: It can in a multiple-offer situation, but if a home has been sitting, it’s often a smart negotiation tool.

Q: Is it better to lower the price or ask for closing costs?

A: If you’re tight on cash, closing cost credits are more useful upfront. Lowering the price saves money over time, but doesn’t reduce your immediate expenses.