Deborah Madey,
Agent, Red Bank, NJ
Ms-I,
Your tone is offensive, inappropriate and indicative of how little you really know about the industry.
I know many Realtors whom I admire and trust. Some have degrees, some do not. I do not dismiss a Realtor because of the lack of a college degree. Personally, I came from a corporate background where everyone I worked with did have a degree, because it was a requirement. I worked with plenty of people who were bright, and a good deal who had only a dim light, and that was on their good days. I also know a few real estate licensees who I believe would best serve the industry by leaving.
Many Realtors have college degrees. There are attorneys who became Realtors; additionally we have people who came from marketing careers, sales careers, engineers, nurses, teachers, and more. Many of these people have degrees of strenuous nature and some from very prestigious schools. Many of the better and best Realtors will focus their energy on clients who value their services. If I meet someone who conveys to me that they have little regard for me, why would I invest time and energy with them? I would quickly dismiss them, and instead invest my time and energy developing business with buyers and sellers who have a need that I can fill.
You are actually weakly positioned for negotiations. If and when you pursue a negotiation as an unrepresented buyer, you will surely assume that the Realtor who represents the seller to be beneath you. Unfortunately, underestimating the other party puts you at a disadvantage.
Deborah
Your tone is offensive, inappropriate and indicative of how little you really know about the industry.
I know many Realtors whom I admire and trust. Some have degrees, some do not. I do not dismiss a Realtor because of the lack of a college degree. Personally, I came from a corporate background where everyone I worked with did have a degree, because it was a requirement. I worked with plenty of people who were bright, and a good deal who had only a dim light, and that was on their good days. I also know a few real estate licensees who I believe would best serve the industry by leaving.
Many Realtors have college degrees. There are attorneys who became Realtors; additionally we have people who came from marketing careers, sales careers, engineers, nurses, teachers, and more. Many of these people have degrees of strenuous nature and some from very prestigious schools. Many of the better and best Realtors will focus their energy on clients who value their services. If I meet someone who conveys to me that they have little regard for me, why would I invest time and energy with them? I would quickly dismiss them, and instead invest my time and energy developing business with buyers and sellers who have a need that I can fill.
You are actually weakly positioned for negotiations. If and when you pursue a negotiation as an unrepresented buyer, you will surely assume that the Realtor who represents the seller to be beneath you. Unfortunately, underestimating the other party puts you at a disadvantage.
Deborah
Deborah Madey,
Agent, Red Bank, NJ
I agree w/ JR that most personal homebuyers are not able to "simply move on to the next" for the sole sake of the deal April is in a very small minority. Most personal homebuyers do not have the flexibility to find one property to equally meet their needs as the next.
If a buyer looks at 40 properties before they find one they like, their negotiating power is less than the buyer who would find a list of 30 different homes acceptable.
Investors look for general utility, while most personal home buyers evaluate a home’s ability to fit their lifestyle. It is wise for buyers to evaluate their willingness to let go of a property before writing a very low offer that might adversely iimpact their goals.
Deborah
If a buyer looks at 40 properties before they find one they like, their negotiating power is less than the buyer who would find a list of 30 different homes acceptable.
Investors look for general utility, while most personal home buyers evaluate a home’s ability to fit their lifestyle. It is wise for buyers to evaluate their willingness to let go of a property before writing a very low offer that might adversely iimpact their goals.
Deborah
Safehaven,
Both Buyer and Seller, 07704
Many not all realtors get ahead of themselves by getting involved in price negotiations. It is not their job
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It is the number one thing I want from my realtor. You are not speaking for the majority, only yourself.
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It is the number one thing I want from my realtor. You are not speaking for the majority, only yourself.
Deborah Madey,
Agent, Red Bank, NJ
Hi S,
I will agree with you that is shouldn’t be that hard to find a property in a large metropolitan area with a large inventory. But, in fact, many Realtors will tell you that some “passive” buyers, watch the comings and goings of listings for a long period of time before the “right” property is found.
Buyers actually buy more when they are ready to buy, because the perfect property rarely exists. There are always trade-offs, and buyers become more accepting of minor imperfections when they are “ready” to buy.
There is a recurrent question that I see posted on Trulia. Buyers post the question, “How much under asking price should I offer?” On every thread on that subject, numerous Realtors reply that the buyer should base their offer on market data and make a fair offer. Repeatedly, the Realtors, including myself, reply that the ask price is not a basis for the offer. The market data and what you think is fair should guide your offer. So, there is overwhelming consensus on Trulia, from Realtors, that buyers should make an offer based upon what they think is fair.
I suggest that buyers utilize data to solidify their offers. If there is no rationale for a lower than ask price, it’s a pure play on seller motivation. April has the ability to keep walking away until she finds that highly motivated seller.
The seller has no idea how many homes a buyer went to see before making an offer; nor if the buyer ever made an offer on another property. Few ever ask, and if they did, it would be a disservice to a buyer to indicate that they looked at 40 homes and this is the only one for them. That would shift leverage to the seller. Too many unrepresented buyers reveal too much info. Inexperienced agents make similar mistakes. Who your agent is can make a difference in the outcome.
Negotiation leverage is determined in part, by motivation and knowledge. The person who “wants more” has more to lose by not meeting the terms and conditions of the other party. The buyer who can easily replace house A, with B, C, D, E, and 25 others has little to lose. They simply walk away and say, “next.” April is indicating that she will walk away, easily and without regret.
For the buyer who finally found the home that will work after 4 months of online monitoring, then looking at 40 homes, the walk away is not as easy as it is for April. No one suggested that this person overpay, or not negotiate a fair deal. The buyer agent can use comps and data to support a fair offer.
April might make an offer that is unsupported by data, but reflects the amount she is willing to pay. If she does this often enough, eventually, she will find a taker.
A buyer agent can leverage any additional info learned about the seller to help the buyer. Some buyer agents are better at learning more about the sellers wants and needs. Who your buyer agent is can make a difference in the outcome in the transaction. If, the magical #40 house is owned by a seller who is highly motivated, the buyer may strike gold, get the home they really want and at a very attractive price. If the seller is unwilling to accept a low ball offer, this buyer has a tougher choice to make, because there are fewer replacement possibilities to make. Fewer homes will meet this buyers needs, so it might be worth it to meet the sellers counter. For April, the walk away is easy; she might just say, “next“ because many homes will meet her needs.
If this buyer really wants likes this house, and a low offer offends the seller, they may have done more to hurt themselves than help themselves. The buyer wanted “this” house at the best deal…..and now, they have sellers who are less negotiable. That was Lynn’s point.
As a buyer, determine what the top line criteria is for yourself, be realistic about your strengths and weaknesses and design your action plan accordingly.
I will agree with you that is shouldn’t be that hard to find a property in a large metropolitan area with a large inventory. But, in fact, many Realtors will tell you that some “passive” buyers, watch the comings and goings of listings for a long period of time before the “right” property is found.
Buyers actually buy more when they are ready to buy, because the perfect property rarely exists. There are always trade-offs, and buyers become more accepting of minor imperfections when they are “ready” to buy.
There is a recurrent question that I see posted on Trulia. Buyers post the question, “How much under asking price should I offer?” On every thread on that subject, numerous Realtors reply that the buyer should base their offer on market data and make a fair offer. Repeatedly, the Realtors, including myself, reply that the ask price is not a basis for the offer. The market data and what you think is fair should guide your offer. So, there is overwhelming consensus on Trulia, from Realtors, that buyers should make an offer based upon what they think is fair.
I suggest that buyers utilize data to solidify their offers. If there is no rationale for a lower than ask price, it’s a pure play on seller motivation. April has the ability to keep walking away until she finds that highly motivated seller.
The seller has no idea how many homes a buyer went to see before making an offer; nor if the buyer ever made an offer on another property. Few ever ask, and if they did, it would be a disservice to a buyer to indicate that they looked at 40 homes and this is the only one for them. That would shift leverage to the seller. Too many unrepresented buyers reveal too much info. Inexperienced agents make similar mistakes. Who your agent is can make a difference in the outcome.
Negotiation leverage is determined in part, by motivation and knowledge. The person who “wants more” has more to lose by not meeting the terms and conditions of the other party. The buyer who can easily replace house A, with B, C, D, E, and 25 others has little to lose. They simply walk away and say, “next.” April is indicating that she will walk away, easily and without regret.
For the buyer who finally found the home that will work after 4 months of online monitoring, then looking at 40 homes, the walk away is not as easy as it is for April. No one suggested that this person overpay, or not negotiate a fair deal. The buyer agent can use comps and data to support a fair offer.
April might make an offer that is unsupported by data, but reflects the amount she is willing to pay. If she does this often enough, eventually, she will find a taker.
A buyer agent can leverage any additional info learned about the seller to help the buyer. Some buyer agents are better at learning more about the sellers wants and needs. Who your buyer agent is can make a difference in the outcome in the transaction. If, the magical #40 house is owned by a seller who is highly motivated, the buyer may strike gold, get the home they really want and at a very attractive price. If the seller is unwilling to accept a low ball offer, this buyer has a tougher choice to make, because there are fewer replacement possibilities to make. Fewer homes will meet this buyers needs, so it might be worth it to meet the sellers counter. For April, the walk away is easy; she might just say, “next“ because many homes will meet her needs.
If this buyer really wants likes this house, and a low offer offends the seller, they may have done more to hurt themselves than help themselves. The buyer wanted “this” house at the best deal…..and now, they have sellers who are less negotiable. That was Lynn’s point.
As a buyer, determine what the top line criteria is for yourself, be realistic about your strengths and weaknesses and design your action plan accordingly.
Deborah Madey,
Agent, Red Bank, NJ
Hi,
I did not interpret Lynn’s post to be chastising or reprimanding buyers. I totally understand April’s point of view and respect her decisions.
I agree w/ Lynn that there are instances when buyers make a low offer and that distance creates a wedge which is then too wide to bridge once a seller has become antagonized. As buyer agents, it is our responsibility to apprise buyers of various possibilities, then respect their decisions and carry on accordingly.
April understands that she may get shot down 29 times, and she is OK with that. April simply moves on to the next property to see if an opportunity for her might exist elsewhere. For April, her priority is the deal. April is informed and prepared for the results.
Other buyers may not be prepared to weather 29 rejections. Another buyer might not be prepared to weather 1 rejection, and may be deeply disappointed when they lose a property. The buyer was told by the media and/or friends to bid low. Isn’t it our job to advise buyers of possible responses, so they make informed decisions? A buyer not understand that a seller, even if they agree to the contract may view the buyer with hostility for taking advantage of them, pushing them into a deeper loss, etc. Many sellers feel they are taking financial losses, especially when they go to contract at an amount substantially less than list. Some sellers believe they are in vulnerable positions and look poorly upon opportunists who seek to kick them when they are down and capitalize on their misfortunes by coming in with very low offers. It is to the buyers benefit to consider how a might sellers view the transaction and negotiations.
Lynn’s point about sellers being unwilling to make future concessions for repairs, credits, etc. is valid. A seller who believes they made large concessions to enter the contract, may turn a deaf ear to future requests of any kind.
Another component in the equation is how agents handle the offers. L In the following thread, I asked for input on a listing agent behavior. http://www.trulia.com/voices/Agent2Agent/How_would_you_handl…
Deborah
I did not interpret Lynn’s post to be chastising or reprimanding buyers. I totally understand April’s point of view and respect her decisions.
I agree w/ Lynn that there are instances when buyers make a low offer and that distance creates a wedge which is then too wide to bridge once a seller has become antagonized. As buyer agents, it is our responsibility to apprise buyers of various possibilities, then respect their decisions and carry on accordingly.
April understands that she may get shot down 29 times, and she is OK with that. April simply moves on to the next property to see if an opportunity for her might exist elsewhere. For April, her priority is the deal. April is informed and prepared for the results.
Other buyers may not be prepared to weather 29 rejections. Another buyer might not be prepared to weather 1 rejection, and may be deeply disappointed when they lose a property. The buyer was told by the media and/or friends to bid low. Isn’t it our job to advise buyers of possible responses, so they make informed decisions? A buyer not understand that a seller, even if they agree to the contract may view the buyer with hostility for taking advantage of them, pushing them into a deeper loss, etc. Many sellers feel they are taking financial losses, especially when they go to contract at an amount substantially less than list. Some sellers believe they are in vulnerable positions and look poorly upon opportunists who seek to kick them when they are down and capitalize on their misfortunes by coming in with very low offers. It is to the buyers benefit to consider how a might sellers view the transaction and negotiations.
Lynn’s point about sellers being unwilling to make future concessions for repairs, credits, etc. is valid. A seller who believes they made large concessions to enter the contract, may turn a deaf ear to future requests of any kind.
Another component in the equation is how agents handle the offers. L In the following thread, I asked for input on a listing agent behavior. http://www.trulia.com/voices/Agent2Agent/How_would_you_handl…
Deborah
Deborah Madey,
Agent, Red Bank, NJ
Gerry. Yes we are much in agreement. Thanks for the kind words.
Ms-I, Not all sellers are facing foreclosure. While there is a surge of short sales and foreclosures in the market, this is not true of all sellers. Buyers make comments about properties that are overpriced, and they reject properties by not viewing them. Sellers who are overpriced sit on the market without activity. When they do lower the price and sell, they almost always sell for less. Statistically, it is not in a sellers favor to overprice, for the end result will be unfavorable. Statistically, a buyer runs high odds of insulting a seller.....not by making a low offer......but by making an offer that lacks comps in support. Sometimes as seller needs to hear the truth, and the insult of a low offer is a needed wake up call. When the low offer is inconsistent with market data, it runs a risk of being rejected with reduced opportunity of further negotiations. That is simply a fact. It won't happen every time; but it will happen often. A buyer should know and evaluate probable outcomes before making decisions. As Realtors, we can never tell you what a response will be. But, we can tell you what is frequent or infrequent. Realtors are being forthright advisors by providing this insight to a buyer.
Deborah
Ms-I, Not all sellers are facing foreclosure. While there is a surge of short sales and foreclosures in the market, this is not true of all sellers. Buyers make comments about properties that are overpriced, and they reject properties by not viewing them. Sellers who are overpriced sit on the market without activity. When they do lower the price and sell, they almost always sell for less. Statistically, it is not in a sellers favor to overprice, for the end result will be unfavorable. Statistically, a buyer runs high odds of insulting a seller.....not by making a low offer......but by making an offer that lacks comps in support. Sometimes as seller needs to hear the truth, and the insult of a low offer is a needed wake up call. When the low offer is inconsistent with market data, it runs a risk of being rejected with reduced opportunity of further negotiations. That is simply a fact. It won't happen every time; but it will happen often. A buyer should know and evaluate probable outcomes before making decisions. As Realtors, we can never tell you what a response will be. But, we can tell you what is frequent or infrequent. Realtors are being forthright advisors by providing this insight to a buyer.
Deborah
Gerry Vazquez,
Agent, New York
Are you serious? At a time when many homes are not selling because they're priced too high, a national crusade by Realtors to chastise so-called "low-ball" home-buyers is, well, odd.
J R,
Agent, New York, NY
For most - it is a part time employment, for some it is a weekend activity. As you say - "Do you understand the overheard required to be a realtor and the expenses of individuals who work on the behalf of a family bring their dreams come true of a home" ANSWER - YES! Cel. phone
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MS, you have no idea how ignorant you sound. In your effort to show us all how much it is you know, you are proving that you know nothing, and in the process lookingl ike a fool.
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MS, you have no idea how ignorant you sound. In your effort to show us all how much it is you know, you are proving that you know nothing, and in the process lookingl ike a fool.
Deborah Madey,
Agent, Red Bank, NJ
Gerry,
I think I am already living that crusade.......every day.
Unfortunately, the media has more influence over buyers and sellers than anyone else. The media works to generate revenue and drama sells. An accomplished and well know real estate news contributor for national media recently discussed this. The contributor submits proposed copy to the producer, who rejects all stories with positive overtones. Instead, every submission with doom and gloom written over it is accepted. And, we think that journalism and media is about impartial news reporting? Or, just some of us think that?
I am not suggesting that we deny many markets are declining. I am suggesting that media is biased in news reporting, and education that we do at a grass roots level is helpful, but does not overcome the power of the media.
Deborah
Deborah
I think I am already living that crusade.......every day.
Unfortunately, the media has more influence over buyers and sellers than anyone else. The media works to generate revenue and drama sells. An accomplished and well know real estate news contributor for national media recently discussed this. The contributor submits proposed copy to the producer, who rejects all stories with positive overtones. Instead, every submission with doom and gloom written over it is accepted. And, we think that journalism and media is about impartial news reporting? Or, just some of us think that?
I am not suggesting that we deny many markets are declining. I am suggesting that media is biased in news reporting, and education that we do at a grass roots level is helpful, but does not overcome the power of the media.
Deborah
Deborah
Ms-I,
You're a brave one Ms-I ... most posters are like Dry cleaners ~ in by 8, out by 4 ...
That means most consumers come in and post a thought or two .. and by the late afternoon you have 22 agents pounding the daylights out of them, and you never hear from them again --- oh, it's a very fair system..l.o.l..
Waving the flag and pounding the drum for the NAR seems to be the favorite sport around this neck of the woods -- and the whole time their hoping the bulk of the consumers will believe it .. (it's called protecting the nest).
Keep going, you're doing fine... there will be many changes coming in the next 20 or 30 months and buyers and sellers need to be aware of it.
Good job.!
(don't you love the name calling.?) .. very Profishenal, wouldn't you say.?
.. right now, I have a golf game ..
: ^)
You're a brave one Ms-I ... most posters are like Dry cleaners ~ in by 8, out by 4 ...
That means most consumers come in and post a thought or two .. and by the late afternoon you have 22 agents pounding the daylights out of them, and you never hear from them again --- oh, it's a very fair system..l.o.l..
Waving the flag and pounding the drum for the NAR seems to be the favorite sport around this neck of the woods -- and the whole time their hoping the bulk of the consumers will believe it .. (it's called protecting the nest).
Keep going, you're doing fine... there will be many changes coming in the next 20 or 30 months and buyers and sellers need to be aware of it.
Good job.!
(don't you love the name calling.?) .. very Profishenal, wouldn't you say.?
.. right now, I have a golf game ..
: ^)
Lynn911.com Dallas Real Estate Agent,
Agent, Dallas, TX
Ms ~ !
It is the fact many agents here have made efforts to only assist you gaining knowledge of the trade
I GUESS THE ENTIRE WORLDS fault is the realtos fault, if an industry has failed they have been employeed by THEN IT'S THE REALTORS FAULT the person lost their job, it's the realtors fault that in the community there are perhaps no job opporunties, it is the REALTORS FAULT that the business have moved operations to other foreign countries who work cheaper, it is the REALTORS FAULT gas prices have gone up.
I BELIEVE YOU HAVE FAILED TO CONTINUALLY answer the same repeated question that I have asked you that you state realtors over price homes.... WE CAN'T !.... read prior posts. However you refuse to do so,
Can you share with the real estate community where all of your properties are? Therefore us as seasoned professionals are only willing to assist in selling your properties, or allow the homeless live there for free, support the buyers out there who you want to defend... take in all these families, feed the poor, hungry.
It is the fact many agents here have made efforts to only assist you gaining knowledge of the trade
I GUESS THE ENTIRE WORLDS fault is the realtos fault, if an industry has failed they have been employeed by THEN IT'S THE REALTORS FAULT the person lost their job, it's the realtors fault that in the community there are perhaps no job opporunties, it is the REALTORS FAULT that the business have moved operations to other foreign countries who work cheaper, it is the REALTORS FAULT gas prices have gone up.
I BELIEVE YOU HAVE FAILED TO CONTINUALLY answer the same repeated question that I have asked you that you state realtors over price homes.... WE CAN'T !.... read prior posts. However you refuse to do so,
Can you share with the real estate community where all of your properties are? Therefore us as seasoned professionals are only willing to assist in selling your properties, or allow the homeless live there for free, support the buyers out there who you want to defend... take in all these families, feed the poor, hungry.
Web Reference: http://www.lynn911.com
Lynn911.com Dallas Real Estate Agent,
Agent, Dallas, TX
MS ~ 1
THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMMENTS: Once again the general public HAS NO IDEA what the expenses are for real estate agent alow us realtors explain they are many are surprised
1) WE are not paid by corporate America we are out there on our own
2) General expenses NOT PROVIDED BY A BROKER OR PAID FOR !
a) Car ~ gas, loan, insurances, taxes, state inspection, maintenance,
b) Cell phone(s)
c) Fax line(s)
d) Office supplies: laptop, internet connections:
e) Dues, brokers, MLS, state, yearly education course work ,
f) Advertising
g) Website hosting
h) MLS fees
i) Zip forms
j) Key passes
k) Lock boxes
l) Yard signs
THESE ONLY NAME A FEW expenses the general public is NOT AWARE that are expenses us as realtors have to budget.
IT AMAZES HOW YOU CONTINUALLY STATE THAT REALTORS OVERPRICE HOMES:
ODD YOU REFUSE TO ADDRESS THAT WE CAN'T OVER PRICE A HOME OR COMMERCIAL PROPRERTY.... THE REAL ESTATE TRADE DOES NOT ALLOW that to happen, I have addressed this appraisers act on the behalf of all parties protect the banks, buyers that not to lend money on properties that are over valued.
Professional code of ethics: Your statement is based on general public regarding inspectors:
a) Realtor has to provide a minimum of 3 inspectors, HOWEVER a buyer can select their own inspector that is the buyers right to do as they wish.
b) Inspectors can licensed held liable for the inspection reports
FORECLOSURES:
a) Once again you address the foreclosures are based on realtor over pricing the purchase price of a home.
>>>>>> I fully understand that you may not have the concept of real estate as referenced and addressed by many here that an appraiser must represent the seller, buyer, lender appraises the property. FORECLOSURES ARE NOT, allow me to repeat FORECLOSURES ARE NOT based on the real estate community, if a family have fell upon times where they can't afford a house, then that is not a realtor fault, it is the buying decision of the family not the realtor,
CLOSING:
I find that many realtors have been here to assist you answering your questions in such a kind manner however there are many people that don’t care to research have their own opinions of what their assumptions are …. knowledge has power ,,,, perhaps research more.
Next time you determine to sell a property or purchase a property don’t need a realtor to represent you, run comp’s, and etc.
IT'S not a job it a profession
THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMMENTS: Once again the general public HAS NO IDEA what the expenses are for real estate agent alow us realtors explain they are many are surprised
1) WE are not paid by corporate America we are out there on our own
2) General expenses NOT PROVIDED BY A BROKER OR PAID FOR !
a) Car ~ gas, loan, insurances, taxes, state inspection, maintenance,
b) Cell phone(s)
c) Fax line(s)
d) Office supplies: laptop, internet connections:
e) Dues, brokers, MLS, state, yearly education course work ,
f) Advertising
g) Website hosting
h) MLS fees
i) Zip forms
j) Key passes
k) Lock boxes
l) Yard signs
THESE ONLY NAME A FEW expenses the general public is NOT AWARE that are expenses us as realtors have to budget.
IT AMAZES HOW YOU CONTINUALLY STATE THAT REALTORS OVERPRICE HOMES:
ODD YOU REFUSE TO ADDRESS THAT WE CAN'T OVER PRICE A HOME OR COMMERCIAL PROPRERTY.... THE REAL ESTATE TRADE DOES NOT ALLOW that to happen, I have addressed this appraisers act on the behalf of all parties protect the banks, buyers that not to lend money on properties that are over valued.
Professional code of ethics: Your statement is based on general public regarding inspectors:
a) Realtor has to provide a minimum of 3 inspectors, HOWEVER a buyer can select their own inspector that is the buyers right to do as they wish.
b) Inspectors can licensed held liable for the inspection reports
FORECLOSURES:
a) Once again you address the foreclosures are based on realtor over pricing the purchase price of a home.
>>>>>> I fully understand that you may not have the concept of real estate as referenced and addressed by many here that an appraiser must represent the seller, buyer, lender appraises the property. FORECLOSURES ARE NOT, allow me to repeat FORECLOSURES ARE NOT based on the real estate community, if a family have fell upon times where they can't afford a house, then that is not a realtor fault, it is the buying decision of the family not the realtor,
CLOSING:
I find that many realtors have been here to assist you answering your questions in such a kind manner however there are many people that don’t care to research have their own opinions of what their assumptions are …. knowledge has power ,,,, perhaps research more.
Next time you determine to sell a property or purchase a property don’t need a realtor to represent you, run comp’s, and etc.
IT'S not a job it a profession
Web Reference: http://www.lynn911.com
Gerry Vazquez,
Agent, New York
Deborah and Lynn, How about a national crusade to educate sellers, buyers AND realtors on true market pricing! It'd be in everyone's interest, no? Gerry
April,
Both Buyer and Seller, Potomac, MD
What if....as a buyer...I am not in love with a certain home and really don't mind at all if the seller decides to take a hard stand on the list price....I don't mind if he holds his house and pays a double mortgage for the next year...I'll just go on to the next house of the 25 to 50 on my list until one of the sellers is willing to take my "low ball" offer......what if?
On the other hand....if I really needed a house today and really loved a certain house and allowed my emotions to get the best of me....well, then I see your point very well.....but...I'm glad that's not me. I like looking for the best deal possible. It takes a lot of hours at work to make 25k.....If I search for a house until I get a lowball offer accepted it's like working full time for 3 or 4 months....except the work is fun. J.M.O. though as one type of buyer who is out there.
On the other hand....if I really needed a house today and really loved a certain house and allowed my emotions to get the best of me....well, then I see your point very well.....but...I'm glad that's not me. I like looking for the best deal possible. It takes a lot of hours at work to make 25k.....If I search for a house until I get a lowball offer accepted it's like working full time for 3 or 4 months....except the work is fun. J.M.O. though as one type of buyer who is out there.
S,
Both Buyer and Seller, 91311
There are many professionals that don't require a retainer - do you have any idea how many fees are reduced or completely written off in these professions? And there are many in sales that only receive commission, or not, after lots of hard word - this is not unique to those in real estate sales. What does set those in real estate sales apart is how dumb many feel that buyers and sellers are. Those in real estate feel they are superior. There are buyers that know how to negotiate and are very good at it. There are buyers and sellers that are intelligent and read and study. I'm sure the reasons to use a real estate professional are different for everyone - some may not want to hassle with all of the paperwork and negotiating, some may want the realtor to screen the properties, some may want the realtor to take care of all of the details of setting up inspections etc but that does not mean that the buyers and sellers out there are incompetent. There is more and more we can do on our own - Trulia is a perfect example - anyone can now easily find listed properties. Quit insulting us or you will push us away for good.
J R,
Agent, New York, NY
JR
There you go! You actually believe that being a broker in short sale transaction makes you a hero worthy of worship by others.
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Ms 1 YOU are the one who asked how many posters have done pro bono work, how many have spoken to families facing foreclosure. I ANSWERED you that I had and now you're being nasty and asking me if that makes me a hero. Go and troll Craigs List. You'd be more at home there. I'll stop by later and check out how many thumbs down you and your other screen names give me.
Thank you Trulia for supplying another website where realtors can continually be under attack by ignorant people who know nothing about the profession.
There you go! You actually believe that being a broker in short sale transaction makes you a hero worthy of worship by others.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ms 1 YOU are the one who asked how many posters have done pro bono work, how many have spoken to families facing foreclosure. I ANSWERED you that I had and now you're being nasty and asking me if that makes me a hero. Go and troll Craigs List. You'd be more at home there. I'll stop by later and check out how many thumbs down you and your other screen names give me.
Thank you Trulia for supplying another website where realtors can continually be under attack by ignorant people who know nothing about the profession.
J R,
Agent, New York, NY
Have you talked to anyone who was foreslosed on? How many realtors have done any pro bono work to save a poor homeowner from being foreclosed on?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Again, you have no idea what you're talking about. I've put in plenty of work assisting people in short sales, and I am associated with many agents who have assisted homeowner facing foreclosures or short sales--have you any idea how LONG it takes to close a short sale and how much work is involved?---and not been paid, or been paid a pittance for their time.
And I can already see the thumbs down sprites circling my post....Trulia, when will you get rid of that silly rating system?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Again, you have no idea what you're talking about. I've put in plenty of work assisting people in short sales, and I am associated with many agents who have assisted homeowner facing foreclosures or short sales--have you any idea how LONG it takes to close a short sale and how much work is involved?---and not been paid, or been paid a pittance for their time.
And I can already see the thumbs down sprites circling my post....Trulia, when will you get rid of that silly rating system?
J R,
Agent, New York, NY
Many not all realtors get ahead of themselves by getting involved in price negotiations. It is not their job. As a realtor - your job is to MARKET the property not to appraise it or be a financial planner giving advice to a buyer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lynn is right. It is not up to you to tell us what our job is. Thank you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lynn is right. It is not up to you to tell us what our job is. Thank you.
Any agent such as myself who wouldn't have their client put in an initial lowball offer is crazy. This is how you find out how motivated the seller is.
S,
Both Buyer and Seller, 91311
"If a buyer looks at 40 properties before they find one they like, their negotiating power is less than the buyer who would find a list of 30 different homes acceptable"
I don't understand how your negotiating power is less if you look at more properties. If you have the cash, the loan, etc don't you have the power? How would the seller of the home you put an offer on today know how many you have already tried for? I think April has the right idea - offer what you think is fair - and just keep trying until you get one. There are so many houses to pick from, with new ones coming on the market every day - that it is really not that hard , in a big city at least, to find one that will work.
I don't understand how your negotiating power is less if you look at more properties. If you have the cash, the loan, etc don't you have the power? How would the seller of the home you put an offer on today know how many you have already tried for? I think April has the right idea - offer what you think is fair - and just keep trying until you get one. There are so many houses to pick from, with new ones coming on the market every day - that it is really not that hard , in a big city at least, to find one that will work.
J R,
Agent, New York, NY
April understands that she may get shot down 29 times, and she is OK with that. April simply moves on to the next property to see if an opportunity for her might exist elsewhere. For April, her priority is the deal. April is informed and prepared for the results.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I respect her motivation, but I don't see that in most buyers. Most don't even see that many properties they remotely LIKE. I guess if you aren't picky about what house you end up with, it's a good strategy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I respect her motivation, but I don't see that in most buyers. Most don't even see that many properties they remotely LIKE. I guess if you aren't picky about what house you end up with, it's a good strategy.
MS-I,
Home Buyer, Miami, FL
Here is the situation. Real life with real money! It is a REO property with asking price $799,900.
Three months ago asking price for the house was over $1,500,000. Following is price history of the house:
July 2003 - $460,000
June 2005 - $650,000
December 2006 - 1,250,000
Similar houses in similar condition on the same street were sold for about $175,000 in 2000.
So what offer will insult the seller? Should I takeover the bank's problem by offering $750,000 and make it my problem?
This is not an isolated situation. This is the most common situation in Miami.
Three months ago asking price for the house was over $1,500,000. Following is price history of the house:
July 2003 - $460,000
June 2005 - $650,000
December 2006 - 1,250,000
Similar houses in similar condition on the same street were sold for about $175,000 in 2000.
So what offer will insult the seller? Should I takeover the bank's problem by offering $750,000 and make it my problem?
This is not an isolated situation. This is the most common situation in Miami.
MS-I,
Home Buyer, Miami, FL
This is not a game as you realtors would like it! This is real money! Offer is a offer is a offer. There is no reason to pay one dollar more than one has to and there is no reason to accept one dollar less than one has to. You will never see the sellers face again in your lifetime so do not worry about what he / she feels about the offer. Did any of you advise the sellers in past 5 years - not to insult the buyer by asking high price? I doubt it.
**..Car salesman working for the buyer......THATS a laff riot!..**
... Interesting, much like the buyers agent in real estate ....
... Interesting, much like the buyers agent in real estate ....
Gary Weitzel,
Home Seller, 34746
Well! To say that this whole discussion was interesting and enlightening would be an understatement.
I'm going to preface my comments with this. There are vaid points on both sides of this equation. I have been on the market active for the last 7 months in this wonderful real estate hell hole called Florida, and researching where I want to move, the areas, homes, price trends, time on market etc since August of last year. I have also been doing continual research on the pricing of my home since we went to market.
Now. When we sell I will be a VERY active buyer. We want to sell, not need to sell. I have had a very good agent whos contract expired and now have another very good agent whom I know will go above and beyond to see that what I want done is done to sell my house. Will I low-ball? To some sellers it may seem that I am. (I'm not going to try to "rape" them at 50% off list, that's assinine) But I AM going into the hunt with full knowledge and my eyes wide open. For example;
A house is listed at $325k that has been on the market for 180 days and has lowered its price from $340k at the 60 day mark. Comps show sales between $325k & $280K. But the area trend is still moving down and area comp homes have lost an average of 11% of value over the same six month listing time. Or $340K -11%($37400)= $302600
Now some may argue that offering say $290k for that house would be "low-balling". In my opinion offering 20% off asking as an opening bid ($260K) is a fair starting point, as an offer is a start of a negotiation. Some may ask why so low an offer? Well chances are good that over the course of the next 12 months I'll more than likey incur another 12% loss of value in the home. Why should I eat that loss? Why should I make up the diffference to the seller for a home that was purchased at an inflated value? They should have sold when the selling was good. (see my current hell in FL) Economics 101.
Understand I am willing to negotiate and will have all my ducks in a row. The RE market in many, not all, areas of the U.S. are a mess (see my current hell). It has become in many areas a simple question of economics, supply and demand. Anyone selling anything must find the price to move their goods or services to the consumer.
So if you want to sell one MUST price ahead of the curve, so the consumer beats a path to your door. The need to sell is an entirely different matter. Where there is NEED there is emotion. Need due to forclosure, divorce, death etc. You may think the sharks are in the water and smelling blood. Emotion cannot be involved. Like "ohhhh but we put sooo much into our home" or "our home is the best in the neighborhood" etc.
To end. The home I'm buying is an investment. Like it should have been for the person I may buy it from. Then there's the builder that speculated that I'd pay 2006 prices in 2008 and built the place and has been sitting on inventory for a year. That's really hurting the pocketbook. The best price is the price that sells your house. And believe it or not, THAT price is set by the buyer NOT the seller.
Interesting conversation!
Gary
I'm going to preface my comments with this. There are vaid points on both sides of this equation. I have been on the market active for the last 7 months in this wonderful real estate hell hole called Florida, and researching where I want to move, the areas, homes, price trends, time on market etc since August of last year. I have also been doing continual research on the pricing of my home since we went to market.
Now. When we sell I will be a VERY active buyer. We want to sell, not need to sell. I have had a very good agent whos contract expired and now have another very good agent whom I know will go above and beyond to see that what I want done is done to sell my house. Will I low-ball? To some sellers it may seem that I am. (I'm not going to try to "rape" them at 50% off list, that's assinine) But I AM going into the hunt with full knowledge and my eyes wide open. For example;
A house is listed at $325k that has been on the market for 180 days and has lowered its price from $340k at the 60 day mark. Comps show sales between $325k & $280K. But the area trend is still moving down and area comp homes have lost an average of 11% of value over the same six month listing time. Or $340K -11%($37400)= $302600
Now some may argue that offering say $290k for that house would be "low-balling". In my opinion offering 20% off asking as an opening bid ($260K) is a fair starting point, as an offer is a start of a negotiation. Some may ask why so low an offer? Well chances are good that over the course of the next 12 months I'll more than likey incur another 12% loss of value in the home. Why should I eat that loss? Why should I make up the diffference to the seller for a home that was purchased at an inflated value? They should have sold when the selling was good. (see my current hell in FL) Economics 101.
Understand I am willing to negotiate and will have all my ducks in a row. The RE market in many, not all, areas of the U.S. are a mess (see my current hell). It has become in many areas a simple question of economics, supply and demand. Anyone selling anything must find the price to move their goods or services to the consumer.
So if you want to sell one MUST price ahead of the curve, so the consumer beats a path to your door. The need to sell is an entirely different matter. Where there is NEED there is emotion. Need due to forclosure, divorce, death etc. You may think the sharks are in the water and smelling blood. Emotion cannot be involved. Like "ohhhh but we put sooo much into our home" or "our home is the best in the neighborhood" etc.
To end. The home I'm buying is an investment. Like it should have been for the person I may buy it from. Then there's the builder that speculated that I'd pay 2006 prices in 2008 and built the place and has been sitting on inventory for a year. That's really hurting the pocketbook. The best price is the price that sells your house. And believe it or not, THAT price is set by the buyer NOT the seller.
Interesting conversation!
Gary
Rk Ruthman,
Broker, Connecticut
With the economy being what it is, low ball offers or not, negotiations have become a tug of war. Buyers and Sellers are equally digging in their heels. If one side lets go, then the other side falls on their arse.
I would never discourage anyone from writing any offer, and I do not discourage Sellers from taking the time to consider all offers. If the terms and conditions are decided to be unreasonable or undesirable, then a counter-offer should be made.
In my book, it is all about communicating and keeping it professional. Hopefully, the outcome will leave each party with a feeling of satisfaction, and not a feeling of being dragged through the mud.
I would never discourage anyone from writing any offer, and I do not discourage Sellers from taking the time to consider all offers. If the terms and conditions are decided to be unreasonable or undesirable, then a counter-offer should be made.
In my book, it is all about communicating and keeping it professional. Hopefully, the outcome will leave each party with a feeling of satisfaction, and not a feeling of being dragged through the mud.
Web Reference: http://www.RuthmanRE.com
S,
Both Buyer and Seller, 91311
JR - buyers and sellers use real estate agents for different reasons - some use them to find the listed properties but others can and enjoy doing this on their own and use the agent for other tasks - my point is that buyers and sellers are not dumb - we are capable of doing everything an agent can do IF we want to - agents have no special magic, even the multiple listings are now public information - but sometimes in life we prefer to pay others for those tasks that we don't enjoy or don't want to do - but that does not make the buyers and sellers out there incompetent or ignorant.
Lynn911.com Dallas Real Estate Agent,
Agent, Dallas, TX
MS – 1
I am also assuming based on your comment regarding education for realtors, I am sorry you are not aware for the industry standards required.
a) We have to take education course mandated by the State to maintain our licence
b) Brokers office maintain weekly , monthly meetings continue the realtors training
c) Realtors also forward updates via the boards and etc. regarding continued trends, education and updates
These are only a few examples how we are forced to stay on top of the trade, unless you work real estate every day a person does not know the wealth of time is invested for sellers or buyers from the real estate community to list their homes or locate a home for a buyer
Realtors are only paid at closing along with other professionals who support the trade from title companies, inspectors, appraisers, lending industry, site only a few, it is the best interest for all parties to secure a win/win situation, many families have chosen this as a profession, their career,
Do you understand the overheard required to be a realtor and the expenses of individuals who work on the behalf of a family bring their dreams come true of a home
DO YOU know how many professionals that work in other trades that don’t have a college education been successful, let’s start with Bill Gates Microsoft his education, is he qualified to run a multi ~ billion business he has lack of education. Let’s start talking about lack of education of the strong leaders of the world however we depend on them trust them in our stock investments, running a company, families who are employed their trust their career in their hands.
I am also assuming based on your comment regarding education for realtors, I am sorry you are not aware for the industry standards required.
a) We have to take education course mandated by the State to maintain our licence
b) Brokers office maintain weekly , monthly meetings continue the realtors training
c) Realtors also forward updates via the boards and etc. regarding continued trends, education and updates
These are only a few examples how we are forced to stay on top of the trade, unless you work real estate every day a person does not know the wealth of time is invested for sellers or buyers from the real estate community to list their homes or locate a home for a buyer
Realtors are only paid at closing along with other professionals who support the trade from title companies, inspectors, appraisers, lending industry, site only a few, it is the best interest for all parties to secure a win/win situation, many families have chosen this as a profession, their career,
Do you understand the overheard required to be a realtor and the expenses of individuals who work on the behalf of a family bring their dreams come true of a home
DO YOU know how many professionals that work in other trades that don’t have a college education been successful, let’s start with Bill Gates Microsoft his education, is he qualified to run a multi ~ billion business he has lack of education. Let’s start talking about lack of education of the strong leaders of the world however we depend on them trust them in our stock investments, running a company, families who are employed their trust their career in their hands.
Web Reference: http://www.lynn911.com
S,
Both Buyer and Seller, 91311
JR- I think you misunderstood my comment. If a seller wants to use the agent they are paying to do the negotiating then fine - but why can't a buyer speak directly to the sellers agent? I in no way meant to imply that a buyer that is a good negotiator should only deal with a fsbo. My point is that buyers are not as dumb as some might think we are - and sellers aren't either, but I agree, if as a seller we are going to pay the big bucks in the commission then sure why not - let the agent do the work. And yes I have been a buyer and seller probably more times than most on this list - personal buyer and seller that is - with my dollars - not as an agent representing someone elses sale or purchase. And I think it is time for change - dare to challenge and bend the rules that agents have been trying to convince us that cannot be changed. If you like the rules then fine - go with them - but I think it is time that agents stop telling us what we can and cannot do.
J R,
Agent, New York, NY
What a house sold for 8,5,3 or even 2 years ago really has nothing to do with the value of that house TODAY. You've got to look at similar homes that have recently sold and homes currently on the market to assess what is a reasonable offer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is very true. What is also true, is don't tell me the owner paid 30,000 for that house in 1960.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is very true. What is also true, is don't tell me the owner paid 30,000 for that house in 1960.
Dz,
Both Buyer and Seller, Las Vegas, NV
Ms-l,
What a house sold for 8,5,3 or even 2 years ago really has nothing to do with the value of that house TODAY. You've got to look at similar homes that have recently sold and homes currently on the market to assess what is a reasonable offer.
What strikes me here, is there are people here who have EXPERIENCE like investors and RE agents sharing their knowledge based on personal experience. Why not consider they might have a good point.
I've been investing in RE for over 10 years. And some of the best deals I've found were win/win. You might want to start looking for the prices that you are willing to pay to find your good deal, rather than expecting sellers to accept an offer drastically lower than list.
If that seller was too high, they'll figure it out when they don't get any offers.
What a house sold for 8,5,3 or even 2 years ago really has nothing to do with the value of that house TODAY. You've got to look at similar homes that have recently sold and homes currently on the market to assess what is a reasonable offer.
What strikes me here, is there are people here who have EXPERIENCE like investors and RE agents sharing their knowledge based on personal experience. Why not consider they might have a good point.
I've been investing in RE for over 10 years. And some of the best deals I've found were win/win. You might want to start looking for the prices that you are willing to pay to find your good deal, rather than expecting sellers to accept an offer drastically lower than list.
If that seller was too high, they'll figure it out when they don't get any offers.
Lynn911.com Dallas Real Estate Agent,
Agent, Dallas, TX
Ms-I
A seller can't ask more for the property based on the appraisals and comp's for the past 6 months. A bank can't lend money on a property that can't appraise.
Therefore agents would rather sale a property for all parties interest (sellers, builders, buyer) we as professional real estate brokers/agents, mortgage brokers, title companies, banks dont get paid unless a property sales.
If a property is undervalued that is GREAT for the new home buyer for that property. We as professional real estate agents realize when an offer is submitted that is so far below market value, we have the "marching orders' from the seller not to present low ball offers not even bother them. However my office does forward or personally contact the seller notify them of the offer, determine what their preference is with the low ball offers... most of those words I can't mention via a blog.
Most homes will always sell if the price is within reason for that area. The areas that are tough here in the US are having problems due to the job markets.
A seller can't ask more for the property based on the appraisals and comp's for the past 6 months. A bank can't lend money on a property that can't appraise.
Therefore agents would rather sale a property for all parties interest (sellers, builders, buyer) we as professional real estate brokers/agents, mortgage brokers, title companies, banks dont get paid unless a property sales.
If a property is undervalued that is GREAT for the new home buyer for that property. We as professional real estate agents realize when an offer is submitted that is so far below market value, we have the "marching orders' from the seller not to present low ball offers not even bother them. However my office does forward or personally contact the seller notify them of the offer, determine what their preference is with the low ball offers... most of those words I can't mention via a blog.
Most homes will always sell if the price is within reason for that area. The areas that are tough here in the US are having problems due to the job markets.
Web Reference: http://www.lynn911.com
Deborah Madey,
Agent, Red Bank, NJ
I answered this thread about making offers with very low prices.
http://www.trulia.com/voices/Market_Conditions/Is_Brigantine…
http://www.trulia.com/voices/Market_Conditions/Is_Brigantine…
Jed Lane; Fog City Guide,
Broker, San Francisco, CA
Ok I've read all the way through these posts and whoa!
MS-1 sits in Florida and espouses as if the rest of the world is like Florida. They had an incredible run up and now have so much overstock it will take years to absorb. Fact is Florida does this over and over again. Anybody remember Glengarry Glen Ross or the swamp land sales. Florida could always serve as the poster child for how do the boom/bust dance.
It is interesting also when people decry someone's level of education but post without editing their comments. Trulia needs to put a spellchecker feature on here.
To the original question: Most Americans can’t negotiate. We are not trained to and we have been led to believe it is distasteful. I didn’t learn how until I worked on the retail floor in consumer electronics when margins were high. I still remember those lessons very well. Remember your position look and listen for advantage and don’t give anything away. Over the years in my previous carriers I would negotiate and win price concessions and very favorable adjustments because I learned and knew how better than the other side. Now that I work as an agent, and I fully recognize what that term means, I use all of my ability for my clients benefit regardless of how it affects my income. My income negotiation happens when I set the percentage of the eventual sale price I will get. After that it is all about the client and what works for them.
The professionals amongst us know that negotiation is a key part of what we are there to do. When I spoke of keeping your eyes open and your ear to the ground to gain any advantage for your client that is exactly what I meant. Sometimes it can pay off big for our clients and I know I will take advantage every time I can for my client. That is one of the reasons I rarely double end and if I do it is with the full knowledge of both principals that they will have to come to agreement on some aspects of terms and conditions together without me being in the middle.
MS-1 also questions how much we do pro-bono. I had to laugh out loud at that. Let’s take this on two levels First, how often do we work with people going through the process and never get paid because something changes in their lives. My first trainer always pointed out how unique we are in that we do everything before we get paid. No other group or profession does that. Second, I know that I have given my time to many charitable causes and so have my colleagues. I have done Habitat builds, my office raised over 65,000 dollars in two years for Habitat $8,000 of that came from two dinners I cooked where we sold place at bid and they went for $500 each. I have volunteered to coach first time buyers, I have given to a wonderful program here in San Francisco called EARNSF that matches savings 3 for 1 for low income people wanting to buy a home, start a business or return to school. I also work on committees at our board of Realtors that arranged a $25,000 grant to the same organization. All of this was not done alone but with other Realtors.
Lynn,
What is needed is to teach how to negotiate. A low ball offer is fine, any offer is better than no offer. But everyone needs to be able see that there are very formal steps involved in arriving at the sale price. Everyone knows that the buyer set the price. There is no sale until a buyer buys. Doesn’t matter what the commodity is or what the market is like.
Negotiation is a blast, have fun with it. Throw some curveballs but remember to just keep the conversation going so that your client has the choice.
MS-1 sits in Florida and espouses as if the rest of the world is like Florida. They had an incredible run up and now have so much overstock it will take years to absorb. Fact is Florida does this over and over again. Anybody remember Glengarry Glen Ross or the swamp land sales. Florida could always serve as the poster child for how do the boom/bust dance.
It is interesting also when people decry someone's level of education but post without editing their comments. Trulia needs to put a spellchecker feature on here.
To the original question: Most Americans can’t negotiate. We are not trained to and we have been led to believe it is distasteful. I didn’t learn how until I worked on the retail floor in consumer electronics when margins were high. I still remember those lessons very well. Remember your position look and listen for advantage and don’t give anything away. Over the years in my previous carriers I would negotiate and win price concessions and very favorable adjustments because I learned and knew how better than the other side. Now that I work as an agent, and I fully recognize what that term means, I use all of my ability for my clients benefit regardless of how it affects my income. My income negotiation happens when I set the percentage of the eventual sale price I will get. After that it is all about the client and what works for them.
The professionals amongst us know that negotiation is a key part of what we are there to do. When I spoke of keeping your eyes open and your ear to the ground to gain any advantage for your client that is exactly what I meant. Sometimes it can pay off big for our clients and I know I will take advantage every time I can for my client. That is one of the reasons I rarely double end and if I do it is with the full knowledge of both principals that they will have to come to agreement on some aspects of terms and conditions together without me being in the middle.
MS-1 also questions how much we do pro-bono. I had to laugh out loud at that. Let’s take this on two levels First, how often do we work with people going through the process and never get paid because something changes in their lives. My first trainer always pointed out how unique we are in that we do everything before we get paid. No other group or profession does that. Second, I know that I have given my time to many charitable causes and so have my colleagues. I have done Habitat builds, my office raised over 65,000 dollars in two years for Habitat $8,000 of that came from two dinners I cooked where we sold place at bid and they went for $500 each. I have volunteered to coach first time buyers, I have given to a wonderful program here in San Francisco called EARNSF that matches savings 3 for 1 for low income people wanting to buy a home, start a business or return to school. I also work on committees at our board of Realtors that arranged a $25,000 grant to the same organization. All of this was not done alone but with other Realtors.
Lynn,
What is needed is to teach how to negotiate. A low ball offer is fine, any offer is better than no offer. But everyone needs to be able see that there are very formal steps involved in arriving at the sale price. Everyone knows that the buyer set the price. There is no sale until a buyer buys. Doesn’t matter what the commodity is or what the market is like.
Negotiation is a blast, have fun with it. Throw some curveballs but remember to just keep the conversation going so that your client has the choice.
Tiffany Burke,
Agent, Corpus Christi, TX
I think this post has received many educated, well thought out, and humble responses.
As nice as it would be, It is not our jobs to continue to try educating people who refuse to listen; much less, believe the facts.
Unfortunately, it seems that some people may be projecting their bad experience with a past real estate transaction or foreclosure onto ALL people involved in the real estate transaction(including lenders, appraisers,inspectors etc) However, although we all know this is not factual; it is like beating a dead horse in trying to dis-prove their POV's. Chances are they will go into their grave before seeing the facts. That doesn't make them right it simple proves the do not see the bigger picture, past their own personal experience. It is much like the blind man holding onto an elephant's trunk and being ask, what is it? The blind man answers, a large snake.
I think our time would be better spent on buyers/sellers who actually need and appreciate our services , than wasting energy on someone who has been so openly negative, offensive and downright nasty concerning our entire profession despite the fact that SO MANY professionals here have really tried being open, honest . educating and courteous with the replies they left.
Best of luck and blessings to you Ms. I.
Better and Better,
Tiffany
As nice as it would be, It is not our jobs to continue to try educating people who refuse to listen; much less, believe the facts.
Unfortunately, it seems that some people may be projecting their bad experience with a past real estate transaction or foreclosure onto ALL people involved in the real estate transaction(including lenders, appraisers,inspectors etc) However, although we all know this is not factual; it is like beating a dead horse in trying to dis-prove their POV's. Chances are they will go into their grave before seeing the facts. That doesn't make them right it simple proves the do not see the bigger picture, past their own personal experience. It is much like the blind man holding onto an elephant's trunk and being ask, what is it? The blind man answers, a large snake.
I think our time would be better spent on buyers/sellers who actually need and appreciate our services , than wasting energy on someone who has been so openly negative, offensive and downright nasty concerning our entire profession despite the fact that SO MANY professionals here have really tried being open, honest . educating and courteous with the replies they left.
Best of luck and blessings to you Ms. I.
Better and Better,
Tiffany
Jed Lane; Fog City Guide,
Broker, San Francisco, CA
Understanding the frustration that comes when passionate principles get in the way passionate principals is the fun/frustrating part of being an agent.
My job is to advise my principal and then do what they tell me to do. The next phase of the job is keep the dialogues open so that in the negotiation my client can have the opportunity to choose to stay in or get out. At no time is my place to tell them what to do. Always present options then present your opinion on the options and let them choose. Keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities to advance the position of your client, but remember to be the consummate pro in dealing with the pro on the other side.
(PS) maybe I should have read some of the diatribes before posting. Hang in there JR.
My job is to advise my principal and then do what they tell me to do. The next phase of the job is keep the dialogues open so that in the negotiation my client can have the opportunity to choose to stay in or get out. At no time is my place to tell them what to do. Always present options then present your opinion on the options and let them choose. Keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities to advance the position of your client, but remember to be the consummate pro in dealing with the pro on the other side.
(PS) maybe I should have read some of the diatribes before posting. Hang in there JR.
MS-I,
Home Buyer, Miami, FL
if a family have fell upon times where they can't afford a house, then that is not a realtor fault, it is the buying decision of the family not the realtor,
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Lynn,
You just proved my point.. Realtor should not be involved in price negotiations. You are a messenger at the most. There are laws about agency, representation and withholding information.
Do not tell the buyer how much to bid! Either that or be accountable for your actions! There are good realtors and there are those who are in it for a quick buck, ready to cross any line.
------------------------------------------------------
Lynn,
You just proved my point.. Realtor should not be involved in price negotiations. You are a messenger at the most. There are laws about agency, representation and withholding information.
Do not tell the buyer how much to bid! Either that or be accountable for your actions! There are good realtors and there are those who are in it for a quick buck, ready to cross any line.
MS-I,
Home Buyer, Miami, FL
JR
There you go! You actually believe that being a broker in short sale transaction makes you a hero worthy of worship by others. That is not helping people! that is BUSINESS! Short sale is a marketing tool. You take a overpriced house and sell it to a unwitting buyer! That's why you do not want buyers to low ball offers.
If you really want to help people - save a family from foreclosure. Give something back to the community. After all those are the people who have contributed to your livelihood with two jobs. Buy a short sell at cost. Save the family. Be fair. If they paid $500,000 a year ago, give them at least $499,000. I am sure you are a successful realtor who has made millions in commissions in past 5 years. You will be my hero!
There you go! You actually believe that being a broker in short sale transaction makes you a hero worthy of worship by others. That is not helping people! that is BUSINESS! Short sale is a marketing tool. You take a overpriced house and sell it to a unwitting buyer! That's why you do not want buyers to low ball offers.
If you really want to help people - save a family from foreclosure. Give something back to the community. After all those are the people who have contributed to your livelihood with two jobs. Buy a short sell at cost. Save the family. Be fair. If they paid $500,000 a year ago, give them at least $499,000. I am sure you are a successful realtor who has made millions in commissions in past 5 years. You will be my hero!
MS-I,
Home Buyer, Miami, FL
Lynn,
In my life time - I have purchased, sold and financed many deals in real estate for personal use, as investment and other businesses. Doing a residential real estate deal has always been difficult due to uneducated realtors who do not know or care about contract law or business. Some of the realtors are very good and knowledgeble but they work mostly in commercial real estate. Place like Floria you have more people with realtor license than with drivers license.
Many not all realtors get ahead of themselves by getting involved in price negotiations. It is not their job. As a realtor - your job is to MARKET the property not to appraise it or be a financial planner giving advice to a buyer.
For most - it is a part time employment, for some it is a weekend activity. As you say - "Do you understand the overheard required to be a realtor and the expenses of individuals who work on the behalf of a family bring their dreams come true of a home" ANSWER - YES! Cel. phone
Do you mean that people can not fullfill their dream of owning a home without realtor, who has invested in a cel phone? That's a laugh! You charge a helfty commission for the service - more than any other industry. Poor buyer does not realize that 6% commission is earned in a fraction of time in comparision to the time it took him to save for down payment.
Just like anyone else in this world, you are doing a JOB. Only favors you are doing is to yourself. Listening to people like you makes me want to support the stringent regulations governing realtors. instead of trying to convince the buyer to ruin their life - you should focus on talking to your CLIENT to accept market price for the properties, which is what people can afford to pay.
It is going to be a long road to recovery. REMEMBER NASDAQ 5000? It was a great opportunity to buy the stocks when it came down to 4000 then to 3000 then to 2000 and finally to 1000. If a financial advisor was to suggest to a unsuspecting buyer to pay higher price than necessary, he would land himself in jail. I think same rules should apply to realtors.
Group of us are buying distressed properties (as we would like to call them) and see the misery surrounding the foreclosures. It is sad to see the families destroyed. Some people blame the mortgage industry but most of the fraud was committed by the realtors who befriended the buyers and misguided them in to purchasing overpriced properties with the money they did not have. Home inspections were done by the friends of the realtor who dare not disclose the problems with the property. Appraisers looked at ZILLOW.COM for the property values. no one wanted to see the deal fall through at any cost - the 6% greed!
Have you talked to anyone who was foreslosed on? How many realtors have done any pro bono work to save a poor homeowner from being foreclosed on? Credibility of NAR is in the toilet right now. Unless the industry changes the ways it does business - there are going to be major changes - changes which realtors may not like.
In my life time - I have purchased, sold and financed many deals in real estate for personal use, as investment and other businesses. Doing a residential real estate deal has always been difficult due to uneducated realtors who do not know or care about contract law or business. Some of the realtors are very good and knowledgeble but they work mostly in commercial real estate. Place like Floria you have more people with realtor license than with drivers license.
Many not all realtors get ahead of themselves by getting involved in price negotiations. It is not their job. As a realtor - your job is to MARKET the property not to appraise it or be a financial planner giving advice to a buyer.
For most - it is a part time employment, for some it is a weekend activity. As you say - "Do you understand the overheard required to be a realtor and the expenses of individuals who work on the behalf of a family bring their dreams come true of a home" ANSWER - YES! Cel. phone
Do you mean that people can not fullfill their dream of owning a home without realtor, who has invested in a cel phone? That's a laugh! You charge a helfty commission for the service - more than any other industry. Poor buyer does not realize that 6% commission is earned in a fraction of time in comparision to the time it took him to save for down payment.
Just like anyone else in this world, you are doing a JOB. Only favors you are doing is to yourself. Listening to people like you makes me want to support the stringent regulations governing realtors. instead of trying to convince the buyer to ruin their life - you should focus on talking to your CLIENT to accept market price for the properties, which is what people can afford to pay.
It is going to be a long road to recovery. REMEMBER NASDAQ 5000? It was a great opportunity to buy the stocks when it came down to 4000 then to 3000 then to 2000 and finally to 1000. If a financial advisor was to suggest to a unsuspecting buyer to pay higher price than necessary, he would land himself in jail. I think same rules should apply to realtors.
Group of us are buying distressed properties (as we would like to call them) and see the misery surrounding the foreclosures. It is sad to see the families destroyed. Some people blame the mortgage industry but most of the fraud was committed by the realtors who befriended the buyers and misguided them in to purchasing overpriced properties with the money they did not have. Home inspections were done by the friends of the realtor who dare not disclose the problems with the property. Appraisers looked at ZILLOW.COM for the property values. no one wanted to see the deal fall through at any cost - the 6% greed!
Have you talked to anyone who was foreslosed on? How many realtors have done any pro bono work to save a poor homeowner from being foreclosed on? Credibility of NAR is in the toilet right now. Unless the industry changes the ways it does business - there are going to be major changes - changes which realtors may not like.
J R,
Agent, New York, NY
JR- I think you misunderstood my comment. If a seller wants to use the agent they are paying to do the negotiating then fine - but why can't a buyer speak directly to the sellers agent?
JR: In my state there is nothing stopping them. I've negotiated many sales without another agent involved.
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I in no way meant to imply that a buyer that is a good negotiator should only deal with a fsbo. My point is that buyers are not as dumb as some might think we are - and sellers aren't either, but I agree, if as a seller we are going to pay the big bucks in the commission then sure why not - let the agent do the work. And yes I have been a buyer and seller probably more times than most on this list - personal buyer and seller that is - with my dollars - not as an agent representing someone elses sale or purchase. And I think it is time for change - dare to challenge and bend the rules that agents have been trying to convince us that cannot be changed.
JR: Many many occupations have changed since the dawn of the personal computer and many more will change. As far as "bending rules", the public fails to understand that realtors can lose their license when they bend certain rules. There is another thread here where agents discussed their fiduciary duties, and a few honest buyers and sellers admitted "hey, I didn't realize agency was so complicated". It isn't complicated because realtors make it complicated, it's complicated because THE LAW makes it complicated. There are too many buyers and sellers spouting off on this forum about something they know very little about. And I'm sure I'm going to get some responses like "what you do isn't ROCKET SCIENCE", but be that as it may, it is complicated.
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If you like the rules then fine - go with them - but I think it is time that agents stop telling us what we can and cannot do.
JR: Talk to your state attorney general, not your local agent.
JR: In my state there is nothing stopping them. I've negotiated many sales without another agent involved.
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I in no way meant to imply that a buyer that is a good negotiator should only deal with a fsbo. My point is that buyers are not as dumb as some might think we are - and sellers aren't either, but I agree, if as a seller we are going to pay the big bucks in the commission then sure why not - let the agent do the work. And yes I have been a buyer and seller probably more times than most on this list - personal buyer and seller that is - with my dollars - not as an agent representing someone elses sale or purchase. And I think it is time for change - dare to challenge and bend the rules that agents have been trying to convince us that cannot be changed.
JR: Many many occupations have changed since the dawn of the personal computer and many more will change. As far as "bending rules", the public fails to understand that realtors can lose their license when they bend certain rules. There is another thread here where agents discussed their fiduciary duties, and a few honest buyers and sellers admitted "hey, I didn't realize agency was so complicated". It isn't complicated because realtors make it complicated, it's complicated because THE LAW makes it complicated. There are too many buyers and sellers spouting off on this forum about something they know very little about. And I'm sure I'm going to get some responses like "what you do isn't ROCKET SCIENCE", but be that as it may, it is complicated.
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If you like the rules then fine - go with them - but I think it is time that agents stop telling us what we can and cannot do.
JR: Talk to your state attorney general, not your local agent.
J R,
Agent, New York, NY
How many realtors have a college degree and what qualification do they have to keep the two parties who are making the biggest financial transaction of their life out of decision making.
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Obviously you would be surprised at the number who do. What makes the generic "home buyer" or "home seller", who may undertake a transaction such as the sale or purchase of a home once or twice in their lives, more qualified than someone who does it every day?
Wondering if you are a teacher, ms-1, because it's usually teachers who equate the amount of education one has with how well one performs their job.
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Obviously you would be surprised at the number who do. What makes the generic "home buyer" or "home seller", who may undertake a transaction such as the sale or purchase of a home once or twice in their lives, more qualified than someone who does it every day?
Wondering if you are a teacher, ms-1, because it's usually teachers who equate the amount of education one has with how well one performs their job.
MS-I,
Home Buyer, Miami, FL
b) Buyers / sellers ~ are busy apparently you have must have more time on your hands than the average person therefore would rather have the agents handle all therefore the buyers / seller can push forward with their personal and professional live leave all the trivia too the agents.
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How many realtors have a college degree and what qualification do they have to keep the two parties who are making the biggest financial transaction of their life out of decision making. I think we give more choices to the children in selecting there clothes. Even the financial advisor is more regulated while handling $1000 rollover IRA.
Who is representing the buyer except another agent who is collecting commission from the seller? Which he is hardly aware of (except in some states where fine print disclosure form is signed on the first day before befriending him to disclose his maximum affordibility).
This is a kind of talk that has gotten us in this miserable condition and this is a kind of talk which is bring the regulators breathing down our neck like the stock brokers have. Did you consider it fair when people were flipping houses at 1000% profits based on the down payment? Did any of you ask the seller to be fair? Ignorance is a bliss when you do not know how many lives have been destroyed, how many children have to live with one parent for rest of their lives. How many children can not get the medical treatment they need because some greedy realtor mislead their parents in to overpaying for the house. how can youlive with yourselves?
A good realtor understands that his/her only interest is to conclude the deal as a agent. Price is not his/her concern. That is between the buyer and the seller to decide. realtor is not a financial advisor. Especially when one is giving criminally neglegiant financial advice to one party.
This is America. For every buyer there is seller. Do not play on peoples emotions with pressure tactics such as "The seller & listing agent can either block you from your prefect home or the seller and listing agent can work with you and your buyers agent in concert where all parties win. " BUYERS AGENT is a oxymoron. If there was one - his/her duty would be to find the lowest possible price (specially when the share of commission is 3% of the deal value).
Why don't realtors base their commissions on the time it took to sell the house and the affordability of the buyer?
Why do realtors make such a big deal about any "offer". It is a offer. If the seller does not like it - he/she can say NO! Keeping the offers from the seller can get one in serious legal problems especially if the seller end up in a foreclosure situation. Be warned!
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How many realtors have a college degree and what qualification do they have to keep the two parties who are making the biggest financial transaction of their life out of decision making. I think we give more choices to the children in selecting there clothes. Even the financial advisor is more regulated while handling $1000 rollover IRA.
Who is representing the buyer except another agent who is collecting commission from the seller? Which he is hardly aware of (except in some states where fine print disclosure form is signed on the first day before befriending him to disclose his maximum affordibility).
This is a kind of talk that has gotten us in this miserable condition and this is a kind of talk which is bring the regulators breathing down our neck like the stock brokers have. Did you consider it fair when people were flipping houses at 1000% profits based on the down payment? Did any of you ask the seller to be fair? Ignorance is a bliss when you do not know how many lives have been destroyed, how many children have to live with one parent for rest of their lives. How many children can not get the medical treatment they need because some greedy realtor mislead their parents in to overpaying for the house. how can youlive with yourselves?
A good realtor understands that his/her only interest is to conclude the deal as a agent. Price is not his/her concern. That is between the buyer and the seller to decide. realtor is not a financial advisor. Especially when one is giving criminally neglegiant financial advice to one party.
This is America. For every buyer there is seller. Do not play on peoples emotions with pressure tactics such as "The seller & listing agent can either block you from your prefect home or the seller and listing agent can work with you and your buyers agent in concert where all parties win. " BUYERS AGENT is a oxymoron. If there was one - his/her duty would be to find the lowest possible price (specially when the share of commission is 3% of the deal value).
Why don't realtors base their commissions on the time it took to sell the house and the affordability of the buyer?
Why do realtors make such a big deal about any "offer". It is a offer. If the seller does not like it - he/she can say NO! Keeping the offers from the seller can get one in serious legal problems especially if the seller end up in a foreclosure situation. Be warned!
J R,
Agent, New York, NY
To Deborah - very good comments but you make it sound as though only an agent has negotiating skills. Agents service a purpose in the knowledge they have about real estate but there are many sophisticated buyers out there and many that can out negotiate the best of them. However, it is rare that a buyer can negotiate on their own - agents won't even let them near the seller or the seller's agent. Why does it have to be this way?
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Not Deborah...but the reason sellers hire agents is because they don't want to speak directly to buyers. Many times when sellers get involved, they say too much or get personally insulted by buyers' comments and feedback. As far as buyers go, they aren't paying the commission. The seller hired us so that they don't have to deal with the buyer directly. Whether we end up handling both sides or one, they already have negotiated a commission with us. I know there are a lot of savvy negotiators out there---how do you think a seller feels when confronted directlly with a savvy negotiator? Either they just don't want to hassle with direct negotiation, or they know will negotiate better. Many have been FSBO and had many "buyers" who just "love" their house, find nothing wrong with it, and "just have to sell" their own house. You would be surprised how many times FSBO sellers hear that. No one every dislikes the house! It's amazing! It's perfect! If they wanted that situation they'd have gone FSBO and they haven't. There are plenty of FSBOs out there, go to town and deal with them directly.
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Not Deborah...but the reason sellers hire agents is because they don't want to speak directly to buyers. Many times when sellers get involved, they say too much or get personally insulted by buyers' comments and feedback. As far as buyers go, they aren't paying the commission. The seller hired us so that they don't have to deal with the buyer directly. Whether we end up handling both sides or one, they already have negotiated a commission with us. I know there are a lot of savvy negotiators out there---how do you think a seller feels when confronted directlly with a savvy negotiator? Either they just don't want to hassle with direct negotiation, or they know will negotiate better. Many have been FSBO and had many "buyers" who just "love" their house, find nothing wrong with it, and "just have to sell" their own house. You would be surprised how many times FSBO sellers hear that. No one every dislikes the house! It's amazing! It's perfect! If they wanted that situation they'd have gone FSBO and they haven't. There are plenty of FSBOs out there, go to town and deal with them directly.
S,
Both Buyer and Seller, 91311
To Deborah - very good comments but you make it sound as though only an agent has negotiating skills. Agents service a purpose in the knowledge they have about real estate but there are many sophisticated buyers out there and many that can out negotiate the best of them. However, it is rare that a buyer can negotiate on their own - agents won't even let them near the seller or the seller's agent. Why does it have to be this way?
It is time for buyers to take the lead - if you must buy then go ahead and find the best house at the best price but buyers as a group can change the market place and the values - just as buyers drove up the prices, if we stop buying, the prices will come down. No need to lowball - just be patient. The sellers can't sell without us. The agents will push hard since they need sales commissions to survive but they will need to dip into the savings they have from those 1.5 mil sales or reinvent themselves and find something else to do until we start buying again.
To Ms-1 - your posts are the best - you are a realist. thank you
It is time for buyers to take the lead - if you must buy then go ahead and find the best house at the best price but buyers as a group can change the market place and the values - just as buyers drove up the prices, if we stop buying, the prices will come down. No need to lowball - just be patient. The sellers can't sell without us. The agents will push hard since they need sales commissions to survive but they will need to dip into the savings they have from those 1.5 mil sales or reinvent themselves and find something else to do until we start buying again.
To Ms-1 - your posts are the best - you are a realist. thank you
MS-I,
Home Buyer, Miami, FL
If you are a realtor - ideal deal would be to conclude the sale at the highest price in one day. influencing the buyer to bid against themselves has gotten this country in to this real estate mess. I suppose you are aware of asset pricing in our financial system. In past few years most pundits (mostly NAR members) predicted shortage of housing in the united states including advise such as "if you do not buy today - you will never afford again."
Hardworking professional realtors have social standing below the used car salesman now - thanks to NAR.
Only way to calculate the house price appreciation is to use long term growth rate, which is about 0.5 - 0.75 % over inflation rate. Given the madness of recent years and affordability factor housing prices will hit back at 1999 levels before resuming their normal trend. Otherway would be 1970's style inflation will errode the buying power of dollar, which will show no drop in housing prices but the gas price will be $15 /gal and minimum wage at $50/hr.
People have to buy what they can afford based on their savings and earnings NOT based on mortgage they can get from the bank. This is America - there is no shortage of houses and never will be. Business is not about being fair. I have never heard of a realtor who reduced the commission to fair level becasue the house was sold in a day without any marketing efforts! is it fair to charge 6% commission to a poor family who has saved 55 down payment after holding two jobs.
So get real and honest! There was a realtor involved, when the house was sold for $1.25 million. Where is he now? Is he/she accountable for the advise? It is beneficial for the seller to expect higher than last sale in the falling market - or do you expect the buyer to be a Santa?
Hardworking professional realtors have social standing below the used car salesman now - thanks to NAR.
Only way to calculate the house price appreciation is to use long term growth rate, which is about 0.5 - 0.75 % over inflation rate. Given the madness of recent years and affordability factor housing prices will hit back at 1999 levels before resuming their normal trend. Otherway would be 1970's style inflation will errode the buying power of dollar, which will show no drop in housing prices but the gas price will be $15 /gal and minimum wage at $50/hr.
People have to buy what they can afford based on their savings and earnings NOT based on mortgage they can get from the bank. This is America - there is no shortage of houses and never will be. Business is not about being fair. I have never heard of a realtor who reduced the commission to fair level becasue the house was sold in a day without any marketing efforts! is it fair to charge 6% commission to a poor family who has saved 55 down payment after holding two jobs.
So get real and honest! There was a realtor involved, when the house was sold for $1.25 million. Where is he now? Is he/she accountable for the advise? It is beneficial for the seller to expect higher than last sale in the falling market - or do you expect the buyer to be a Santa?
MS-I,
Home Buyer, Miami, FL
Kate, you are not serious are you? Looks like your seller is not a serious party and is a pressure salesman/woman. This is a reverse psychology they used to use in HongKong fish market. Insult the buyers so he would coughup more money just to prove the point.
Have you ever considered that the seller may be insulting the buyer by asking too much? If the seller feels insulted in this market now - well he can wait for another year or so and give it to the bank!
Have you ever considered that the seller may be insulting the buyer by asking too much? If the seller feels insulted in this market now - well he can wait for another year or so and give it to the bank!
Gerry Vazquez,
Agent, New York
Deborah,
I know that you're fighting the good fight. Actually, I look forward to your commentaries as they are thoughtfully written, instructive and constructive. Thank you.
In regards to the media, you're right! As with economics and business generally, reporting on real estate is plain lousy. As you mentioned, drama sells. But the larger problem is that general interest reporters (and their editors) know next to nothing about business and real estate. Unfortunately, this lack of content knowledge allows for wafer thin analysis and personal/political framing of the issues.
More of a reason for why Realtors need a better gameplan.
Gerry V
vazquezgerry@yahoo.com
I know that you're fighting the good fight. Actually, I look forward to your commentaries as they are thoughtfully written, instructive and constructive. Thank you.
In regards to the media, you're right! As with economics and business generally, reporting on real estate is plain lousy. As you mentioned, drama sells. But the larger problem is that general interest reporters (and their editors) know next to nothing about business and real estate. Unfortunately, this lack of content knowledge allows for wafer thin analysis and personal/political framing of the issues.
More of a reason for why Realtors need a better gameplan.
Gerry V
vazquezgerry@yahoo.com
Dz,
Both Buyer and Seller, Las Vegas, NV
Ms-I was obviously being sarcastic about the car salesman, but #^%$*&, this guy should just go take a few real estate classes so he has some clue about what he's talking about. The amount time he's spent on this post, he could've actually learned something instead of trying to prove he knows something.
BTW: My agent doesn't tell me what price to offer...he gives me the facts and strategies so I will get the house I WANT TO GET! He's giving me advice to help acheive MY goals. He backs it up with data, and then the choice is MINE.
BTW: My agent doesn't tell me what price to offer...he gives me the facts and strategies so I will get the house I WANT TO GET! He's giving me advice to help acheive MY goals. He backs it up with data, and then the choice is MINE.
