Negotiation is a Process the Cats Have it Down Pat!
100 Real Estate Tips in 100 Days (Day 39)
Buying a home is a stressful and emotional process. Time and time again I hear people say, “I’m not going to settle for just anything.” Then two minutes later they are head over heels in love with a home, ready to do “whatever it takes” to get it.
This is when I give my speech;
Buying a home is done best with the head not the heart. Yes, your heart must love it, but if you are to succeed in negotiation, you must detach that heart and put your head in gear. We must keep our wits about us while purchasing because not only does this effect your immediate situation, it effects your financial situation over the years to come. Getting out of your home is just as important as getting into it. If we start out wrong, we will never recoup our original position.
First we make a plan, for now and in the future. We outline plan A, B and sometimes C all based on your
needs. Then and only then do we proceed with an offer to the seller. This time of judgment or rejection is a difficult time for nervous emotional buyers. It is imperative that you remain reasonable and calm.
Have you ever owned a cat? Or rather should I say, has a cat ever owned you? Cats are always cool under fire. They can give a detached look, flip a tail and walk nonchalantly away. Take a lesson from a cat. Act like one and you will win.
P.S. Some cat behavior is not acceptable. For instance never emulate a cat waiting for a can of tuna to be opened. This Behavior is not an acceptable negotiation strategy!
About the Author
Kristal Kraft
Kristal has been helping buyers and sellers in Colorado since 1984. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of the Metro Denver Real Estate market via blogging and in person while driving around the beautiful Rocky Mountain town of Denver! For fun, Kristal enjoys shooting things with a Canon. Visit Denver Photo Blog



Kristal Kraft

One Comment
One of the best books I’ve read is “Negotiate This” by Herb Cohen. It really stresses the points you mentioned of determining exactly what you’re looking to get and then negotiating without too much emotion. Never had a cat, but that analogy definitely makes sense.