HOW TO CONDUCT A SUCCESSFUL NEGOTIATION

In my mind, a successful negotiation is not where one side has pulverized the other. You don't "win" a negotiation; you get the best possible outcome for your clients while doing the least harm.

No one should leave a negotiation angry. After all, you never know when you might have to negotiate with the same people again. When it comes to negotiating on behalf of my clients, I keep the following in mind:

Set the stage: I like a location that's quiet, neutral, pleasant, and away from distractions and confusion. It’s best if everyone turns off their devices, and refrains from calls or texts during negotiations.

Be prepared: I never enter without my homework. I verify any outstanding facts before the negotiation begins. (Later fact-finding can cause a negotiation to bog down!)

Present a united front: I represent clients and have been hired to act on their wishes. At times I may not agree with their position, but I never share that with the other side. If I feel a client’s position is less than optimal, I only discuss it with them in private

Leave attitudes at the door: It’s very simple... treat everyone in the negotiation with respect, regardless of personal opinions. If anyone disagrees, disagree with the idea, not the person.

Watch non-verbal cues and body language: (Sorry, but I can’t reveal all of my secrets here... suffice it to say I take it all in!)

Hold something in reserve: I discuss concessions with my clients before hand and only offer these concessions when we absolutely need to concede something.

I don't harp about points that don't matter to my clients: Negotiations should never choke over a minor point. I like to get agreement on major points such as price and terms and put lesser items aside to return to later.

Never volunteer too much information: Knowledge is power in a negotiation. Telling the other side any information, however insignificant seeming, could weaken my clients’ position. On the other hand, I learn as much about the other side as I can.

If you ever need someone on your side in a real estate negotiation, feel free to email me directly: valerie@valeriemcconville.com

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