and make a counteroffer of $175. However, the seller should counteroffer with $220 to maintain the midpoint at $200. The buyer may either accept this offer or propose $205, which is slightly above the seller's original expectation. Maximize your negotiation strategy by making counteroffers in small increments. Avoid the common tendency to "meet in the middle.”
DON’T ACCEPT LOW-BALL OFFERS
Homebuyers seek great deals. Imagine how quickly you'd jump at the chance to buy a home that’s priced below market value and in perfect condition, meeting all your needs. This scenario is rare, but that doesn’t mean buyers won’t make low-ball offers. If they see your house as not quite their dream home, they might focus on securing a price lower than market value during negotiations. If buyers truly prefer your home over others, why would they agree to pay less for it? Stay focused and negotiate wisely.
DO BE QUIET AND LIS T AND LISTEN
Whether approached by the buyer or the buyer’s agent, staying quiet is one of the best strategies for negotiating the sale. Building an overly friendly relationship with either party can disrupt your focused efforts to sell your home quickly and at a fair price. Buyers who feel uneasy about your silence may seek to break it by sharing crucial information. Ultimately, the more you know about the buyer—rather than the other way around—the better positioned you will be in negotiations.
DON'T BE MOVED BY AWKWARD SILENCE
When the buyer makes an offer, don’t feel pressured to respond right away. Whether it takes 10 seconds or 10 minutes, let the buyer or their agent speak first. They might interpret your silence as disappointment and may choose to revise the offer or concede just to fill the silence. Don't allow experienced negotiators to use
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