• Use theMiddleman. Your real estate agent should be yourmiddleman to negotiate with your seller’s representative. Using him as a buffer will save you time and aggravation. He may also provide useful information concerning the sellers and their intentions, which the other party will not disclose to you. • Wait for the “Big Boss.” Some third-party person (attorney, lawyer, professional friend of the family) needs to see and evaluate the offer and provide his or her expertise.This is a chance to lower the seller’s counter-offer and keep your position. In addition, you will make the seller wait.This may make the seller believe you are considering other options and make them more amenable to your proposals. • Be Curious. Asking questions may draw valuable information from the seller. It might help uncover the reasoning behind the house’s sale. This could offer valuable leverage, if you do not know it yet. • Consider Compromise. Be ready to give away something during the negotiation. • Focus on the Main Goal. Remember your main goal: to get the house. Sometimes you will get stuck negotiating on minor details. It can be a good tactic to wait until you come to an agreement on the main points before proceeding to the details. HOW TO AVOID MISTAKES DURING THE NEGOTIATION Whether you are buying a house for the first time, or just got carried away in the intensity of negotiation, mistakes happen. Keep these simple rules in mind. • Be Nice. No one likes rude people. Try not to offend your seller during a house visit. For example, discussing necessary renovations and the poor taste of the decorations may hurt feelings, if not the deal as well. • Be Calm. Do not express too much of an interest! Most specialists agree that when sellers see howmuch you want this house to become yours, they won’t accept your first offer. To avoid a counter offer, you should always play it cool, no matter how perfect this property is for you.
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