When to Push Back in Negotiations (and When Not To)

By Sheri with The Espinosa Group

In real estate, negotiation is everything. Whether you’re buying your dream home or selling one filled with memories, every contract is a careful balance of give and take. But here’s the real question: when should you push back—and when is it smarter to let go?

Let’s break it down.

✅ When to Push Back

💵 1. Price Doesn’t Match Market Value

If you’re a buyer and the home is priced well above recent comps—or a seller receiving a lowball offer—it’s time to counter. Fair market data is your strongest weapon here.

🛠 2. Repairs Are Major or Safety-Related

A dripping faucet? Maybe not worth the fight. But structural issues, roof leaks, or electrical hazards? Those are non-negotiable items where pushing back protects your investment.

⏳ 3. The Timeline Doesn’t Work

Sometimes buyers need more time to secure financing, or sellers need a faster closing. If the proposed timeline could derail your plans, it’s worth pushing for a better fit.

🔒 4. Contingencies Are Risky

Appraisal, financing, and inspection contingencies protect you. If the other party tries to remove or shorten these in ways that put you at risk, it’s smart to negotiate stronger safeguards.

❌ When Not to Push Back

🛋 1. Small Cosmetic Fixes

Arguing over paint color or outdated light fixtures isn’t worth losing a deal. These are usually low-cost, DIY-friendly updates.

🧾 2. Minor Concessions That Show Goodwill

Sometimes letting the other party “win” on something small keeps the bigger picture intact. For example, letting a seller keep their washer/dryer might not be worth stalling the deal.

🔄 3. When You Have Multiple Wins Already

If you’ve secured your must-haves—like a great price, favorable closing terms, or key repairs—pushing for extras could sour the deal.

😬 4. When It’s About Ego, Not Value

Negotiations should always be about value, safety, and strategy—not pride. Ask yourself: “Is this pushback moving me closer to my goals, or am I just trying to win?”

🎯 The Balance of Negotiation

Smart negotiation is about choosing your battles. Push back when the stakes are high—like price, safety, or terms that could affect your financial security. But let the little things slide when they won’t make or break your happiness in the home.

At the end of the day, the best deals leave both sides feeling like they got something important. That’s the true art of negotiation.

✨ The Bottom Line

Every negotiation is unique, and knowing when to push—and when not to—takes experience, strategy, and a cool head. That’s where having a trusted agent makes all the difference.

📲 Let’s Negotiate Smart Together

Whether you’re buying or selling, I’ll help you stand firm where it matters and compromise where it counts. Together, we’ll land a deal that protects your interests—and gets you across the finish line.

📞 Call/Text: +1 (480) 584-7456
🌐 www.theespinosagroup.us

Your goals are my priority—let’s get them negotiated right.