Buying or selling a home involves big decisions, and negotiation often plays a central role in reaching an outcome everyone is comfortable with.
Whether you are trying to secure the right price as a seller or put forward a strong offer as a buyer, a considered approach can make the process far smoother.
Here are some practical tips to help, whichever side of the transaction you are on.
Start from sound foundations
If you are selling, setting the right asking price is one of the most important steps you will take. A realistic, well researched price gives negotiations the best possible starting point.
An agent with up to date knowledge of the local Thetford market can help you position your home correctly from day one, avoiding unnecessary price reductions later.
Know your top and bottom line
Before negotiations begin, be clear on two things. What your home can realistically achieve, and what you are willing and able to accept.
Having these figures in mind makes it far easier to respond calmly and confidently when offers come in.
Think quality as well as quantity
The size of an offer matters, but so does its strength.
If you want a quick and reliable sale, a buyer who has already sold their home or a first time buyer with no chain may be more attractive than a slightly higher offer with more risk attached.
These factors should always be weighed up during negotiations.
Tips for buyers
Remember that estate agents act on behalf of the seller, so they cannot advise you on bidding strategy.
What you can do is make yourself stand out as a serious and credible buyer. Having a mortgage agreed in principle, understanding your budget and being clear on your position all help.
If you are flexible on timescales or able to move quickly, let the agent know so this can be passed on to the seller. Landlords and investors who can work around a seller’s preferred timetable should also make this clear.
Keep everything polite and realistic
Put yourself in the other party’s shoes. Would you take that offer seriously if the roles were reversed?
Very low offers can alienate sellers and make further negotiations difficult. A respectful approach keeps conversations open and constructive.
Be prepared to give and take
Successful negotiation is rarely about one side winning. It works best when both parties understand their own position but are also willing to consider the other’s priorities.
This opens the door to sensible counter offers and helps move everyone towards a price that feels fair.
Share the load with a good agent
Negotiating can be stressful, especially if you are not used to it.
As local independent estate agents in Thetford, we handle negotiations every day. We are here to guide you, manage conversations professionally and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
If you are thinking about buying or selling and would like some straightforward advice, please feel free to get in touch.
Buying and selling the ethical way
We are proud founding board members of the Ethical Agent Network and sit on its advisory panel. The network brings together independent agents selected for meeting strict standards around values, service and integrity.
If you would like to know more about how we work and why we are the only local agency chosen by the Ethical Agent Network, our team would be delighted to speak with you.
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
