Properties are selling

Goodness, what a week of negative headlines!  The media reports would have us think the real estate world is ending. It is undeniable that it’s tough out there.  As I said last week prices are lower and auction clearance rates are as low as they have been in years. But.  Properties ARE selling.  It is just bloody hard work and takes some serious negotiation skills.

I think the buoyant property market of recent years allowed many people, including some real estate agents, to believe property will simply sell itself: That the role of an agent was ‘facilitator’.  It’s when times are tough that real estate agents define their true value as experienced negotiators.

Savvy buyers recognise that now is a good time to buy which means the opportunity is there to sell.  But it is a balancing act.  Knowing how to manage the angst of vendors hoping to achieve a certain price in an uncertain market, against the determination of buyers to get a bargain and not overspend.  In that situation I say the same thing to both parties.  Be realistic and be prepared to compromise.