A Fort Hood area Buyer Agent called me the other day after we had completed negotiations on one of my listings. She was feeling a little down, saying she felt like she hadn't represented her clients well in negotiations because they didn't get the seller to give them much in the way of concessions.
I understand exactly what she means. I've been on the other side, negotiating for my buyers, and come away with less than we wanted. Sometimes you feel like you went ten rounds in the ring and lost.
Most realtors are "people pleasers" and get into this business because they like helping people. When we can't get everything we want for our clients, we sometimes feel like we let them down.
But after years in the real estate business, I KNOW that isn't true. Agents can and do work hard, structuring creative solutions to issues, and doing everything in their power to get their clients what they want.
But sometimes, it just "AIN'T GONNA HAPPEN".
And it's not the agent's fault.
Remember, every seller has a bottom line, whether it is a resale home or a new construction home. Sometimes sellers just can't give you more due to their financial situation, and sometimes they won't give you more because they know what their real estate is worth and they don't think the concession is reasonable or necessary.
That's not your fault, or your agent's fault. This is NEGOTIATIONS. It means you can accept the counteroffer, or walk away to try a different house.
You'll know what's right for you when the time comes!
Very well said! I always feel bad when the negotiations don't work out. Sometimes the seller's should listen to my advice because 6 months later they still can't sell the home.
All we can do is give the advice, explain the effect on the bottom line and sit back and let the client make the decision! It's amazing how many sellers sign up to pay us a goodly amount of money, yet won't listen to our professional opinion when it's crunch time. Thanks for your comments!