In my limited time in Real Estate, there are two phrases that I don’t like hearing:
1) “I’d like to make an offer on the property, but I don’t want to insult them;” and
2) “I’m looking for a STEAL.”
In the first statement, the buyer is not acknowledging “the process.” In the simplest form, that’s a) seller lists property for sale; b) buyer makes offer; c) seller makes counter offer; d) buyer and seller agree on a price. There’s hardly ever a firm price, and when that’s the case, the process still requires the first offer.
Over the years, I’ve made offers on properties where the counter was no counter offer. In other words, the seller was telling me, “Until you make a serious offer, I’m not going to waste my time with a written counter.” At that time, I had to make a choice to either look at another property, or move closer to the seller’s asking price.
No harm was done, and I had a better understanding of where the seller stood.
When I hear the second statement, my guard goes up. My thinking is, “If this guy is looking for a STEAL, he’s probably going to try to get me to do my work for less than the normal commission. I don’t enjoy spending time with a person with this attitude. Life is too short, and there are plenty of “good guys” out there with whom to work.
There is no doubt that every seller wants to get as much for their property as they possibly can. And, by the same token, the buyer doesn’t want to pay any more than is absolutely necessary. Going through a reasonable negotiation process will achieve that end for both parties – with the emphasis being on the word, REASONABLE.
When you choose John Farrell Real Estate Company, I can guarantee that you will be working with some of the most fair and REASONABLE agents in the profession. Stop in, or call and we’ll help you begin the process of finding the right property for you.
Joel Pottinger, Agent
John Farrell Real Estate Co.
