you from the other side.
Buyers can sometimes be rude and insulting, but you should always be respectful. That lowball offer could very well be them saying, “I really want the house, but I’m going to do what I can to get it for the cheapest possible price.” Treating them well could be what convinces them to pay top dollar for your home after all. Threats, a raised voice, and ultimatums should never be used. Just keep focusing on your goal. Also, keep in mind that if the buyer says, “This is the best I can do,” that may not really be the case. Don’t let thoughts like, “Well, I don’t want to make them uncomfortable by pushing,” get in the way of netting the price you want. It’s important to continue the negotiations—again, respectfully—until they officially make an offer or walk away. By the way, if they do walk away, that’s okay. If their offer is genuinely below what your home’s worth, it’s always better to let them go elsewhere rather than selling just to finally have your home off your hands. I know it’s hard, especially when your place has been sitting on the market for a while, but I promise you it’s the right decision to make! The next mistake on the list is being the first to present a number. Technically, you already did that with your list price, of course, but if a buyer asks your bottom line, don’t tell them! Instead, ask why they’re thinking of buying your home and what they’re considering for an offer. Why is this important? Well, let’s give an example. Paul was buying a used car directly from the owner, a friend of a friend. He thought $7,500 was the lowest he could get it for but was prepared to pay up to $8,000. Paul asked the seller what he wanted for the car, and the seller shrugged. Paul offered the $7,500, and the seller took it. Deal done, and Paul thought it was a good one. A few days later, he found out through their mutual friend that the owner
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