Reacting to an Insulting Offer

Reacting to an insulting offer professionally and productively can help maintain a positive negotiation environment and potentially lead to a more favorable outcome. Here are some steps a seller can take:

1. Stay Calm and Professional

• Maintain Composure: Don’t react emotionally. Keep your cool to avoid escalating the situation.
• Thank the Buyer: Acknowledge the offer courteously.

2. Understand the Buyer’s Perspective

• Ask Questions: Seek to understand why they made such a low offer. Ask questions like, “Can you help me understand how they arrived at that figure?”
• Listen Actively: Pay attention to their reasons. They might have constraints or misunderstandings about the home's value.

3. Counteroffer Strategically

• Make a Counteroffer: Respond with a price that reflects the value of your home. And remember, it may work to your benefit to show some flexibility. 

4. Keep the Door Open

• Express Willingness to Negotiate: Show that you are open to further discussion. 
• Set Boundaries: Politely but firmly communicate the lowest price you are willing to consider.

5. Reassess and Reflect

• Evaluate the Offer: Determine if the buyer’s initial offer is within a reasonable range. Sometimes what seems insulting might be a starting point for negotiation.
• Reflect on Your Position: Consider if there are any adjustments you can make to your offer that would still be beneficial for you.

6. Move On if Necessary

• Know When to Walk Away: If the buyer remains unreasonable, it might be best to end the negotiation politely. “I’m sorry, but it seems we are too far apart on this. Thank you for your time.”
• Keep Professional Relationships Intact: Leave the door open for future negotiations. Your agent can communicate with the buyer's agent and say, “Feel free to reach out if circumstances change."

?? 804-350-0879 | chris@smallre.net | chrissmallgroup.com

*We know RVA neighborhoods! Chris Small and Small & Associates are the official Listing Leaders and Sales Leaders in Richmond's Fan and Museum Districts!

*In 2023, 83% of our listings sold at or over the list price, and 61% sold OVER the list price!

-----

It is my responsibility as your REALTOR® to ensure that when others around you are lowering their expectations, this becomes the time for us to switch gears and discover how to leverage the market effectively to achieve your goals.

If you would like to know more about the current market, or if you have any general real estate questions, call or text me on my cell phone at 804-350-0879 or you can email me at chris@smallre.net.

If you are looking to begin a home search, visit my website to get started! ????