Negotiating | 7 Tried-and-True Tips from 28 Years of Expertise

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With 28 years in the real estate industry, working in tandem with my husband as a trusted partner, I’ve come to understand that negotiation isn’t just a skill.  It’s a craft honed through decades of experience. It’s the cornerstone of every successful transaction.  It’s how we’ve consistently delivered exceptional value to our clients. Allow me to share seven invaluable tips, shaped by our journey, that have elevated our negotiation prowess and set us apart as seasoned experts in the field.

1. **In-Depth Market Knowledge** Our extensive tenure has been a reservoir of invaluable market insights. Stay ahead of trends and consistently update your local real estate knowledge will allow you to set realistic expectations for your clients.  It lays the foundation for effective negotiation.
2. **Active Listening and Empathy** Over the years, we’ve learned that the heart of negotiation lies in active listening. Understanding clients’ unique needs, concerns, and priorities forms the bedrock of our approach. An empathetic stance enables us to tailor a strategy to their unique needs. This ensures negotiations are conducted with their best interests in mind.
3. **Building Strong Relationships** A long-standing presence in the industry has afforded us the opportunity to cultivate invaluable relationships with fellow real estate professionals. These connections not only provide crucial insights but also establish a network of trusted contacts we can rely on for advice or potential deals.
4. **Clear Communication** We’ve found that clarity is non-negotiable in any successful transaction. Ensuring our clients fully grasp every facet of the process, from terms to potential outcomes, has been paramount. We avoid jargon (big, useless words) and remain transparent about any complexities or potential challenges.
5. **Flexibility and Adaptability** Real estate deals are dynamic, often taking unexpected turns. Being flexible and adaptable empowers you to navigate unforeseen circumstances with confidence. It instills trust in our clients and showcases our effective problem-solving skills.
6. **Thorough Preparation** Before every negotiation, invest extensive time in comprehensive research on the property, the seller, and any potential competition. Armed with this information, you will be able to present compelling arguments and counteroffers, demonstrating your unwavering commitment to securing the best deal for our clients.
7. **Win-Win Mindset** With nearly three decades of experience, we firmly believe that successful negotiations benefit all parties involved. It’s not about one side winning and the other losing, but about finding a solution that leaves everyone satisfied. Striving for a win-win outcome fosters goodwill and trust in our abilities as real estate agents.

In the dynamic world of real estate, negotiation isn’t just a skill; it’s an evolving art form, shaped by years of experience and a dedication to serving clients with the utmost value. With 28 years in the industry, working alongside my husband as a trusted partner, these seven tips have been the cornerstone of our success. From in-depth market knowledge to a win-win mindset, each tip reflects the culmination of our journey.

As agents, we understand that every transaction is a unique opportunity to create a mutually beneficial outcome. Our commitment to active listening, clear communication, and unwavering preparation ensures that our clients are not only satisfied but delighted with the results.

The relationships we’ve cultivated over the years, both with clients and industry professionals, have been instrumental in our success. They have not only provided us with insights but have also allowed us to offer a level of service that goes above and beyond.

Remember, negotiation is about more than just closing deals; it’s about building trust, understanding, and lasting relationships. With these tips in hand, may you approach every negotiation with confidence, knowing that you’re not just negotiating a transaction, but a future of satisfaction and success for your clients and yourself.

About the Author
Shannon Ashkinos
Shannon Ashkinos is the Vice President of Connections and Career Success at JPAR® Real Estate. She is an accomplished leader committed to fostering dynamic and high-performing teams through a focus on empowerment, mentorship, and the promotion of inclusive values and cultures. With a passion for developing the next generation of leaders, Shannon is dedicated to driving success and positive change.