Imagine you’re at a car dealership. You’ve done your homework. You know the car’s worth. But when the salesperson returns with an offer, you can’t help but wonder—did they really try to get you the best deal, or did they settle for convenience?

Now picture that same scenario—but with your home on the line. When you're buying or selling real estate, the stakes are far higher than a new car. That’s why having a savvy, tenacious agent by your side is so important. But how do you really know if your agent is negotiating in your best interest?

Let’s break down the signs, the strategies, and the steps you can take to ensure your agent is getting you every dollar—and every advantage—you deserve

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Why This Matters Now

In today’s market, where homes often receive multiple offers and price fluctuations can happen weekly, having a skilled negotiator can mean the difference between a good deal and a great one.

“Negotiation isn’t just about price,” says Peter Klein, Team Leader at Tress Homes. “It’s about terms, timing, contingencies, and making sure our clients walk away with the most value possible.”

So how can you tell if your agent is delivering that level of service? Let’s dig in.

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5 Signs Your Agent Is Negotiating for You

A strong agent arms you with facts. They explain what similar homes have sold for, what your competition looks like, and how that impacts your strategy.

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If you’re always guessing where things stand, that’s a red flag. A proactive agent keeps you in the loop—especially during negotiations.

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Good negotiators know when to push back. Whether it’s asking the seller to cover repairs or negotiating a better closing timeline, your agent should advocate, not just facilitate.

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Does your agent advise you on when to accept an offer or walk away? That insight reflects experience—and confidence in getting you the best deal.

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Price matters, but so do concessions, included appliances, closing costs, and inspection contingencies. A great agent sees the whole picture.

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Common Concerns (and How to Handle Them)

What if I feel rushed into accepting an offer?

You should never feel pressured. A trustworthy agent will lay out the pros and cons, but ultimately respect your pace and comfort level.

How do I know if they’re being honest with the other party?

Transparency is key. Ask your agent to walk you through what they’re communicating on your behalf. A professional has nothing to hide.

I’m worried about losing a deal if we negotiate too hard. What if that backfires?

Great agents walk this line expertly. “Sometimes the fear of losing a deal can lead to leaving money on the table,” says Peter Klein. “Our job is to find the balance between firm and flexible.”

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A Quick Checklist: Is Your Agent Working in Your Best Interest?

✅ They’ve explained local market trends and comps
✅ You’re aware of multiple negotiation strategies
✅ You receive timely updates after showings or offers
✅ They’ve suggested creative solutions (rent-backs, flexible close dates, etc.)
✅ You feel confident, not confused or pressured

If you answered “no” to more than one of these, it may be time to reassess—or ask some direct questions.

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Pro Tips for Buyers and Sellers

For Sellers:

• Ask your agent how they handle multiple offer situations.
  

• Request a breakdown of each offer beyond just price (financing type, contingencies, etc.).
  

• Confirm they’re negotiating inspection repairs after the home is under contract.
  
  

For Buyers:

• Make sure your agent is asking about seller motivations—this can open doors to better terms.
  

• Let them know your non-negotiables so they can defend them.
  

• Always have them review closing documents for any last-minute surprises.

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Final Thoughts: The Agent You Choose Matters More Than You Think

Your real estate agent isn't just your representative—they’re your advocate. A great agent won’t just get the deal done—they’ll make sure it’s the right deal for you.

“Negotiating isn’t about being aggressive,” Peter Klein adds. “It’s about being prepared, confident, and deeply invested in our client’s outcome.”

If you’re unsure whether you’re getting the best deal—or just want a second opinion—we’re here to help.

Ready to Feel Confident in Your Real Estate Decisions?

Whether you're buying your first home or listing your fifth, you deserve an agent who negotiates like your financial future depends on it—because it does.

👉 Start your search today at HomeOnward.com
📩 Or reach out to tresshomes@gmail.com for personalized support and expert advice.