"Playing" the Negotiating Game

Now that you've received an offer on your home you must have done something correct. But if you're not thrilled with all the terms of the offer, the next step is to begin negotiating those terms which are important to you.

The goal for any successful negotiation is for both buyer and seller to "leave the negotiating table" believing they got their way on some or all issues important to them. Listening to the advice of your CRS agent is key. Let them take the lead. They've done this many times before and know how to finesse the situation in your favor. Be certain to prepare before the negotiating begins by:

• Staying Relaxed. Your facial expressions and mannerisms can help set the tone for the buyers. They can also give you away. Above all, avoid any kind of confrontation.
• Compromising. You don't have to win on every point. Compromising on the less important items will help the buyers think about compromising as well.
• Keeping Everything in Perspective. Think about what points are truly important to you and ask your CRS agent to stress those items.
• Not Taking Things Personally. If a buyer finds an aspect of the house they don't like, it's not a reflection on you. Try to be objective about the situation.

If you take an hour or so to prepare beforehand with your CRS agent, you'll be much more relaxed during the negotiating and more satisfied with the results when you're finished.