SOUND OFF

Bob Miles

Q: How can homebuyers negotiate a price down?

A: An experienced Realtor is essential in guiding a buyer through the entire process of identifying a property, negotiating an equitable deal, then following through to get the transaction closed.

Once an ideal property for the buyer is located, it’s my job as their Realtor to assist them by providing all the relevant data of what similar properties are selling for in the nearby area. Once we’ve determined a likely selling range for the property, I’ll offer advice on negotiating tactics to achieve the best deal possible.

Sometimes this may simply be price or closing cost assistance, other times timing or even some non-realty items may come into the equation. The seller’s motivation if known, or competition for the property may also become major influences on the negotiations. Once the buyer has chosen an approach, my job is to try and work with the seller’s agent or builder to obtain the best deal possible for the buyer.

The buying process has gotten much more complex over the last couple of years and a good part of my job as a Realtor is to keep the process moving forward once a property is contracted. It’s a rare deal these days that doesn’t run into some obstacle along the path, and my job is to help the buyers work through these and ultimately obtain their home in the most efficient manner possible.

— Bob Miles, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene, 281-797-1600