NEGOTIATING TIPS
Listen to the Offer Presentation calmly (poker faced with no reactions, only ask questions if clarification is needed.
Do NOT let any part of the Offer bother/offend you ! Be open-minded.
Countering should be after learning the Buyers' sensitivities and special needs. Change as few terms as possible (items of value terms should be summarized and reflected in the bottom line in the most palatable and feasible way for your Buyer). If needed, ask the Selling Broker - After all regarding these things, all you really care is the bottom line isn't it?
Take your time. Before finalizing your Counter-Offer / accepting the one on the table, "plug the holes" in the offer.
AFTER AGREEMENT
There may be several "due Diligence" steps in your Contract, both for Seller and the Buyer. Ask your broker for a full explanation of those and the time table of each, as well as who will do what. Do NOT finalize any plans till your Attorney tells you have a FIRM CONTRACT - the property is not "SOLD" yet !.
Insist on having a fully executed Copy of your Contract immediately.
Consult your Tax Preparer regarding Tax Consequences, preferably before Attorney Approval of your Contract.
Consult your Attorney regarding legal fees, Escrow and Real Estate Tax Adjustments,insist your attorney to locate the Abstract and update it immediately - without waiting for mortgage commitment for the Buyers.
Once the initial Agreement is established, DO NOT SIGN any additional Contract Addendums/Modifications without your Attorney’s consent. When your Broker Advises that, MAKE SURE that Every addendum is specifically SUBJECT to Attorney's Approval AND the Attorney sees it!