Fair Negotiations

I've always prided myself on being a Pit Bull negotiator on behalf of my real estate clients. I'm there to represent them and get the best deal. The consequences for the other party are not my responsibility as long as we act within the limits of the law and Realtor Code of Ethics.

Yesterday a client's son reminded me that I'm really better than that - I am a Pit Bull negotiator to get the best deal for everyone involved. In finding ways to serve every one's interests, my client is served best. I thank him for the insight he provided about how I conduct myself as a professional Realtor. It was refreshingly positive, especially in light of a difficult negotiation that had just been successfully concluded.

His actual comment was that most Realtors are like used car salesmen, pushy and ready to do anything to make the sale and money for themselves, but that I was clearly working to make a sale that would meet the goals and needs of everyone involved. His attorney girlfriend quickly stepped in to defend Realtors by noting that there are good and bad Realtors just as there are good and bad practitioners of every profession. (Well said by an attorney who has probably heard more than her share of negative lawyer jokes.)

As a Realtor I am committed to seeking the advantage for my Buyer or Seller. In this real estate market that often means selling, although the price is well below what was expected, or buying at a price that is a bargain even by today's falling values. In the big picture the overall goals are to meet my client's needs and in doing that to fulfill the need of another real estate client. Negotiating a contract through to closing brings far more personal satisfaction than a paycheck can ever provide.