How to Negotiate Fit-Out: What You Can Get from the Developer

How to negotiate a fit-out with a developer 🏗️

When you buy new property from a developer, price is only one part of the deal. Fit‑out and finishing packages — from basic plaster to full turnkey solutions, appliances and engineered systems — can significantly change the value and comfort of your apartment. Knowing what to ask for and when to ask makes a real difference.

Best moments to negotiate

• Before signing the preliminary contract — the developer has most flexibility.
• During construction early stages — promotions and upgrade offers are common.
• Before handover — you can negotiate fixes and inclusion of missing items.

Common items you can ask for ✅

• Upgraded finishing materials in living areas or bathrooms.
• Basic or built‑in appliances and sanitary ware included in the package.
• Additional electrical capacity, more sockets, or pre‑wiring for air conditioning.
• Glazing or balcony finishing included or discounted.
• Parking or storage space at a preferential rate.
• Extended warranty or free post‑handover defect repairs for a set period.

Always define specifics: material type, brand level, and scope of work rather than vague promises.

Negotiation tactics that work 🎯

1. Do research: know the standard offering and what competing projects include.
2. Prioritize what you value most — upgrades that increase resale value or daily comfort.
3. Offer alternatives: flexible payment terms or earlier contract signature in exchange for upgrades.
4. Use timing: early‑buyer incentives and last‑phase discounts are useful leverage.
5. Get everything in writing — appendices to the contract that clearly list items and specs.

Example requests you can make

• “Can you substitute base floor tiles for a higher‑grade option in the living room?”
• “Can built‑in appliances of a specific brand be included instead of the standard set?”
• “Is there a discounted option for parking if we sign within this month?”

Investor vs resident priorities 🏘️

• Investors often focus on upgrades that boost rental appeal and resale value: higher‑grade finishes, ready‑to-rent kitchens, soundproofing.
• Buyers planning to live in the apartment usually prioritize practical upgrades: a full kitchen, reliable heating and water systems, more sockets and storage.

Legal points — insist on written terms ✍️

• All fit‑out promises must be an appendix to the main purchase contract with clear specs and brands where applicable.
• Avoid vague phrasing like “high quality” without standards or samples.
• Specify responsibilities and deadlines for remedying defects after handover.

Warning signs ⚠️

• Vague or missing specifications in the contract — ask for details.
• Attractive “free” offers not backed by written confirmation.
• Attempts to shift verbal agreements to a post‑contract stage.

Ready‑to‑use checklist before you sign

• Itemized list of works and materials with brand or class levels.
• Warranty terms and timeframes.
• Acceptance procedure and defect remedy schedule.
• Clear rules for any additional payments and how they are documented.

Final tips

Negotiating fit‑out is about preparation, clarity and firmness. Small upgrades negotiated in advance may save you time and money later and increase the apartment’s market attractiveness.

If you’d like help preparing for negotiations or reviewing a contract, we can assist: evaluate the developer’s standard package, prioritize your requests, and ensure all changes are properly documented. Browse apartments and start selection: https://buyhome.ge/en/search

Contact BuyHome — we’ll help you choose the right property and secure a favourable fit‑out package.