Negotiation skills are vital to a real estate agent's career; one of the main roles of an agent is to bring a buyer's offer up to a seller's price, and a seller price down to a buyer's offer. This skill will often be the mark of a truly successful real estate agent. Below are a few tips that I believe are key to be an excellent negotiator.
1. Communication
Communication is the backbone of negotiation, so it's important that an agent can effectively communicate between the seller and the buyer. Being timely, clear and efficient in this area will help to make the process easier and all parties involved will likely respect your ability to do so.
2. Listening
Of course, listening is actually part of communication, but it deserves a special mention. The negotiation process can happen smoothly if the agent is able to listen and interpret what both parties want. Listening is also an important part of making your clients feel valued, so spend time listening and making sure you know what they want.
3. Building rapport
The great thing about communicating and listening well is that these actions help to build rapport. A relationship between an agent and their client that is harmonious and respectful provides a better environment for successful negotiation. I believe that these three aspects of negotiation work hand in hand and can work together to build an agent's success.