If you’ve been keeping an eye on the real estate market in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, or anywhere across Conejo Valley, you may have noticed a shift—there are more homes for sale right now than we've seen in recent years. While housing inventory can vary from one neighborhood to the next, the overall trend is clear: the market is moving toward better balance. And that’s good news for buyers.

More inventory means less competition and more room to negotiate. In a seller’s market, buyers often had to waive contingencies, overbid, or settle for less-than-ideal terms just to get a foot in the door. But today, you might be regaining some negotiating power—and with the right agent, that can translate into better terms, money-saving perks, and a smoother path to homeownership.

Why You Need a Local Real Estate Agent in Conejo Valley to Guide You Through Negotiations

Negotiating isn’t just about haggling over price—it’s about knowing what you can ask for and what could risk losing the deal. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), after finding the right home, the second most important thing buyers want from their agent is help negotiating the sale.

That’s exactly where working with a local expert like Lydia Gable Realty Group becomes essential. Whether you're buying a home in Agoura Hills, Oak Park, or Newbury Park, our team knows what’s working for other buyers in the area and can help you craft a strategy that gives you the best shot at success without scaring off the seller.

What Can You Negotiate in Today’s Market?

Let’s break down the top buyer concessions you may be able to negotiate when buying a home in Conejo Valley right now:

✅ Sale Price

Buyers are more cautious about overpaying—especially with mortgage rates still a key consideration. If a home in Westlake Village or Thousand Oaks has been sitting for a few weeks, the seller might be open to adjusting the price. Your agent will help you determine what’s reasonable.

✅ Closing Costs

You can ask the seller to cover part or all of your closing costs—typically 2–5% of the purchase price. This is especially common in today’s market and was the #1 seller concession in 2024, according to NAR.

✅ Home Warranties

Worried about hidden repair costs after move-in? A home warranty can offer peace of mind, and it’s a relatively low-cost ask that many sellers are happy to accommodate.

✅ Repairs After Inspection

If the inspection reveals issues, your agent can help you negotiate for repairs or a price reduction. In older homes in Agoura Hills or mid-century homes in Newbury Park, this can make a big difference in your budget.

✅ Fixtures and Appliances

Want to keep the washer, dryer, or that beautiful stainless steel fridge? These are often on the table during negotiations, and including them can help you save hundreds or even thousands post-move.

✅ Flexible Closing Date

Whether you need more time or want to close quickly, a custom closing timeline can benefit both parties. Some sellers are in a hurry, others need time to relocate. Your agent can work out terms that align with your goals—and theirs.

FAQs: What Buyers in Conejo Valley Are Asking

1. Can I negotiate in today’s market?
Yes! In areas like Oak Park and Thousand Oaks, increased inventory has made many sellers more flexible—especially if their home has been listed for more than two weeks.

2. What’s the best way to negotiate without losing the deal?
Work with an experienced local agent who understands what’s standard in our market. Lydia Gable Realty Group can help you walk the line between strong offers and smart asks.

3. Is it still a good time to buy in Conejo Valley?
Absolutely. Interest rates are stabilizing, and increased inventory means more choices and better terms—especially for buyers looking for move-in-ready homes in family-friendly neighborhoods or single-story properties in Westlake Village.

Bottom Line

If you’re planning to buy a home in Conejo Valley this year, now is the time to leverage your negotiating power. With more listings and slightly less competition, you may be able to secure a better deal on a home in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Newbury Park, or Oak Park.

But strategy matters. The market is nuanced, and not every seller is open to concessions. That’s why having the right real estate agent by your side—someone who knows the local market inside and out—is more important than ever.

📲 Thinking about making a move? Let’s talk about your home buying goals. We'll create a custom plan that helps you negotiate with confidence and close with clarity.