home, even if it’s now above your maximum budget, because it was “meant for you.” DON’TAPPEARTOO INVESTED. Many home buyers, particularly first-timers, make the mistake of falling in love with a home and letting it show to the seller and the seller’s agent. This is a big mistake that could cost you, where you either end up paying more than you were willing to pay, or end up losing out on the home you thought was going to be yours. One trick to use here, to avoid appearing too invested, or worse, desperate to purchase a particular home, is to use your agent as the “middleman.” In fact, this is one of the reasons you hired a buyer’s agent — to work on your behalf. In this instance, use your agent as a buffer to negotiation with the seller’s representative, which will allow you to set your emotions aside, and save you time and unnecessary aggravation. Your agent can also provide helpful information regarding the seller’s intentions, which the other party won’t disclose to you. DO ASK QUESTIONS . Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it won’t kill the negotiations. In fact, a little curiosity is a good thing, and it’s considered a good negotiation strategy to ask questions and be curious. Asking specific, pointed questions about the home, the home’s condition, the seller, the seller’s situation, etc. can actually reveal useful, valuable information from the seller. You might even discover the reasoning behind the sale of the home. This could give you priceless leverage and put you in a position of power at the negotiating table. However, be subtle and calm in your curiosity and questioning. This is related to the point above, about setting aside your emotions and not appearing too desperate. Showing interest is good, yes, but don’t express too much interest. Most real estate agents and experts agree that when sellers can tell how badly buyers want the home to become theirs, they won’t accept the buyer’s first offer. Remember, you want your first offer to be the best offer.
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