subtle, though. Expressing interest is great, but you don’t want to go too far. You’ll find that most real estate agents and experts agree that when sellers can tell how badly buyers want a home, they won’t accept the first offer, because they know they now have leverage.
DON’T Act Indifferent.
Tying directly into what I just explained, don’t assume that being curious means being nosy or invasive. Yes, you do want to be subtle in your questions, but not so subtle that you appear uninterested in purchasing the home. It’s really all about balance, and a real estate agent can help you achieve this balance. Basically, it boils down to wanting the seller to know you’re definitely interested, but you’re not desperate for it, and are even considering other options (even if that’s not true).
DO Be Willing to Compromise.
As I’ve mentioned before, you might need to make concessions during negotiations. Being prepared for compromise — reasonable compromise — is generally a good practice. Pull out your list of needs vs. wants. Don’t compromise on your needs, but be willing to make a few concessions related to your wants.
DON’T Budge on the Big Things.
That said, don’t compromise on the big-ticket items. First and foremost, stick to your budget! You never want to be stuck with a new home that you might love, but simply can’t afford. This is no way to live out your senior years in comfort and security. Be sure that you and your agent are on the same page here.
DO Consider the Market.
You and your agent’s negotiating strategy will depend on the
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