Seller Credits vs. Price Cuts: What Helps Spokane Buyers More?
If you’re buying a home in Spokane, Eastern Washington, or North Idaho, you might hear this question come up:
“Should we ask the seller to lower the price… or give us credits instead?”
Both options can help.
But they help in different ways.
This post breaks it down simply, so you can understand what actually makes the biggest difference for you.
What Is a Price Cut?
A price cut means the seller lowers the home’s price.
This can help by:
lowering the loan amount
slightly lowering the monthly payment
sometimes helping with appraisal concerns
Price cuts are easy to understand.
The price goes down. The loan gets smaller.
But the monthly payment usually only changes a little.
What Are Seller Credits?
Seller credits are money the seller gives to help cover your costs.
Credits can be used for:
closing costs
prepaid items (like taxes or insurance)
temporary rate buydowns
sometimes lowering your interest rate
Seller credits don’t change the price of the home.
They change how much money you need upfront.
Why Seller Credits Matter More Right Now
Right now, many Spokane-area buyers are focused on:
monthly payment
cash to close
flexibility in the first year
This is where seller credits often help more.
Here’s a simple example:
A $10,000 price cut might lower your payment a little each month.
A $10,000 seller credit could help cover closing costs or reduce your payment more noticeably upfront.
Same dollar amount.
Very different impact.
There Is No One “Right” Answer
This part matters.
Sometimes a price cut is the better choice.
Sometimes seller credits make more sense.
Sometimes using both together works best.
It depends on:
your loan program
your budget
how long you plan to stay in the home
what feels most comfortable right now
That’s why these choices shouldn’t feel rushed.
Why This Comes Up More in Spokane Right Now
The Spokane housing market has slowed just enough to create options again.
Homes are sitting a bit longer.
Sellers are more open to conversation.
Buyers have room to ask questions.
That makes this a good time to understand how credits and price cuts actually work—before deciding what to ask for.
Final Thought
Seller credits and price cuts are tools.
The goal isn’t to “win” the negotiation.
The goal is to set up a deal that fits your real life.
If you’re buying in Spokane, Eastern Washington, or North Idaho, I help walk through these options clearly so you understand what helps you most—now and long term.
No pressure.
Just clear choices.
— Karin, Your Local Loan Lady
Spokane & North Idaho Mortgage Broker
Because You Deserve Better Lending