When Negotiating a Real Estate Purchase Use These Red Hot Tips

Negotiating may be the most critical part of the real estate purchase process. Being able to strike an advantageous deal with the seller virtually guarantees your profit. Negotiating is both an art and a skill that you will master with time and practice; I call it the “Million Dollar Skill”. Here are six tips to get you on your way to profitable transactions.

Know the Property

You should know as much as possible about the real estate purchase you’re about to make. This knowledge comes from researching the neighborhood and knowing how the property compares to others around it along with the cost of potential repair items you may find.

Know the Seller

The best way to learn more about the seller is to listen; use the 75/20 rule, listen 75% of the time and speak 25% of the time! People will be more likely to volunteer information if you give them a chance to talk. But if you aren’t finding out what you need to know, ask questions. Understanding the seller’s situation and their possible flexibility will help you negotiate financing options as well as price.

You also need to find out what the seller’s motivations are. Why are they selling? Or in the case of foreclosure what circumstances brought them to this unfortunate situation. Understanding the reasons behind the sale can help you structure a deal that meets their needs and yours.

Think Win-Win

The best real estate purchase deals result from negotiations that seek to provide something to both parties. There are certain things you want out of the deal and certain things the seller wants in order to sell. Every real estate purchase has several facets. If you can give the seller something they want, that will increase your chance of getting something you want.

Negotiate Terms, Not Just Price

Price is not your only negotiating point. Sometimes the terms of the deal are more important to the seller than the price. Once again, if you can address the seller’s needs in a real estate purchase, your offer will be more persuasive.

Maintain Control

If the seller counters your offer with an offer of his own, don’t let things spiral out of control. Prepare for counter offers by starting your negotiations low and have plenty of concession points. Don’t focus on price, but use other aspects of the deal in your negotiations. Don’t re-negotiate things that have already been decided.

Be Prepared to Move On

Don’t walk away from an attractive real estate purchase without offering your best deal, but know when it’s time to walk away. There will always be another property.

As you can see from these tips, negotiating a real estate purchase is more than two people in a room. Negotiations are won or lost in the preparation. Achieving the outcome you desire depends on your research and mental preparation.

Until next time – be well.
James Gage

Mondays & The Negotiating Business Opportunity

Hello All:

Monday afternoon...whew! These are rough.

Just after lunch, we're a little sleepy, maybe regretting having too much fun over the weekend. But really, by now we're probably looking at that to-do list from Friday that
didn't miraculously disappear over the weekend.

Just makes you want to lay your head on your desk, doesn't
it?

But it's time to gear up for another few days of hard labor...unless you've plugged into the Independent Arbitration opportunity I keep telling you about.

No, I'm not talking about fly-by-night business opportunities that promise
no work and all the money. I run away from those as fast as possible! But more realistic goals for real business people who want to work smarter...and do the work once and get paid extremely well. That's where's it at.

Nobody has done more than I, James Gage to simplify this opportunity and make it achievable for all.

<- Please follow the link over here on the left hand margin, entitled “Video” and see how you can become recession proof.

If you need any motivation to take a look at this opportunity, just watch the evening news: stock market plunges again, jog loss claims up, 2 more banking institutions fail, dollar weak, food prices escalate, small businesses filing bankruptcy at record numbers etc…

My business opportunity model shows you where to find negotiating niches, how to do the research, what tools to use and how to plan a productive, profitable, leveraged business that you actually care about, and can sell a few years down the line for hundreds of thousands of dollars if you choose.

So, for less than lunch for you and your friend or loved one over the course of month’s time frame, you can be fulfilling your own dreams today.

I can guarantee you won't be putting your head back on your desk after you start reading this report.

Peace & Prosperity!

James A. Gage

Ten Tips for Successful Negotiating

by James A. Gage

The ability to negotiate successfully is crucial for survival in today's changing business world. Negotiation is fun if you know what you're doing. So for all you busy executives, here are James Gage's Tips for Successful Negotiating:

1. Develop "negotiation awareness" Successful negotiators are assertive and challenge everything. They know that everything is negotiable.

"Challenge" means not taking things at face value. It means thinking for yourself. You must be able to make up your own mind; as opposed to believing everything you are told. On a practical level, this means you have the right to question the asking price of that new car. It also means you have an obligation to question everything you read in the newspaper or hear on television. You cannot negotiate unless you are willing to challenge the validity of the opposing position.

Being assertive means asking for what you want and refusing to take "no" for an answer. Practice expressing your feelings without anxiety or anger. Let people know what you want in a non-threatening way. Practice 'I' statements. For example, instead of saying, "You shouldn't do that," try substituting, "I don't feel comfortable when you do that."

It should be noted that there is a difference between being assertive and being aggressive. You are assertive when you take care of your own interests while maintaining respect for the interests of others. When you see to your own interests with a lack of regard for other people's interests, you are aggressive. Being assertive is part of negotiation awareness.

2. You must become a good listener. Negotiators are detectives. They ask probing questions and then shut up. The other negotiator will tell you everything you need to know - all you have to do is listen.

Many conflicts can be resolved easily if we learn how to listen. The catch is that listening is the forgotten art. We are so busy making sure that people hear what we have to say that we forget to listen.

You can become an effective listener by allowing the other person to do most of the talking. Follow the 75/25 Rule -- listen 75 percent of the time, and talk only 25 percent of the time. Encourage the other negotiator to talk by asking lots of open-ended questions -- questions that can't be answered with a simple "yes" or "no."

3. Be prepared. Gather as much pertinent information prior to the negotiation. What are their needs? What pressures do they feel? What options do they have? Doing your homework is vital to successful negotiation.

4. Have high expectations. People who aim higher do better. If you expect more, you'll get more. Successful negotiators are optimists. A proven strategy for achieving higher results is opening with an extreme position. Sellers should ask for more than they expect to receive, and buyers should offer less than they are prepared to pay.

5. Be patient. This is very difficult for Americans. We want to get it over with. Whoever is more flexible about time has the advantage. Your patience can be devastating to the other negotiator if they are in a hurry.

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Negotiating Business Question of the Week

Hello All:

As you can imagine, I receive a number of e-mail questions per day. That being said, I thought I would post 1 e-mail question a week for the benefit of you, my faithful blog readers!

This week our question comes from Rob Johnson from Cooper City, Fl :

"James, is the Negotiating business opportunity you advocate going to be impacted by the

Uniform Debt-Management Services Act ?"

Thanks Rob for the great question. The act you are referring to is just a proposal that will only pertain to individual consumer debt! There have been wide spread abuses in the consumer counseling arena for a number of years, and hundreds of thousands of complaints lodged against the industry as a whole. This is one of the reasons we do not handle individual debt, just business debt.

In addition to being an extremely regulated industry, individuals don't have money to pay you for your negotiating expertise. As I always say " if they can't pay a $20.00 credit card bill, what make you think they will be able to pay you for your professional services rendered?"

I hope this answered your question.

Be well,

James A. Gage

How To Pick The Best Business Opportunity For You !

By James A. Gage

Browsing the internet there are literally thousands of business opportunity resources and a person often gets overwhelmed by the sheer choice of programs, and services.

When looking for a business opportunity you should look for 7 primary qualities:

1. Integrity : Does the company have a reliable track record/history?

2. Value : Is the company providing a valuable service/product?

3. Training : Do they provide you with quality one-on-one training and materials?

4. Support : Is it easy to contact them and do they reply in a timely fashion?

5. Compensation :Is your effort rewarded in a timely manner (Return On Investment)?

6. Investment : Does the opportunity require tens of thousands of dollars to get started, and years for you to recoup your initial investment?

7. Recession Proof : Can it be profitable in an up, down or side ways economic market?

All these qualities are important when choosing a business opportunity.

Too many people jump in to an opportunity such as MLM ( Multi Level Marketing) that promises them mountains of gold, only to find that they have been ripped off after the opportunity seems to have disappeared into thin air or has gone bust.

Another opportunity being marketed is that of the franchise. A franchise business is a method a company uses to distribute its products or services through retail outlets owned by independent, third party operators. The independent operator does business using the marketing methods, trademarked goods and services and the "goodwill" and name recognition developed by the company. In exchange, the independent operator pays an initial fee and royalties to the owner of the franchise.

The company that grants the independent operator the right to distribute its trademarks, products, or techniques is known as the franchiser. The independent, third party business person distributing the franchiser's products or services through retail or service outlets is called the franchisee. The franchiser charges hundreds of thousands of dollars for a license, and in addition may require annual payments to continue using their name and trade marks.

What ever business you choose to get involved with make sure it meets your budget and expectations! There is nothing worse then starting a business that becomes un-enjoyable, unprofitable, and finally becomes a 80 hour torture chamber.

The Economy & Arbitration

Hello All:

You've heard the news...

Banks are going out of business.
Fuel prices are at an all-time high.
Real estate is in the tank.

So why the heck would I tell you NOW is the best time to finally get off
your duff and start making money with Independent Arbitration?

Well, two reasons:

Reason #1: It's the only business you can start without needing to invest a
small fortune to get off the ground! (I will show you how within 14 days).

And...

Reason #2: Business debts are at all time highs, and with the bankruptcy law revisions there are only a few options for business owners

Makes sense right?

Now what if I told you I was going to show you how to...

• Find a unlimited number of clients
• Negotiate like a seasoned pro
• Setup your business for under $100.00
• Make a 6 figure income on a part time basis

Would that get your attention?

If the answer is yes, then go to http://www.negotiatingforaliving.com
and find out how you can start your own "recession proof" Arbitration business
with no risk TODAY.

And if you ever have any questions never hesitate to give me a call at 508-595-9567.

All the best...

James A. Gage

PS: Don't forget to watch our video.

Debt Arbitration: A Business Whose Time Has Truly Come!

by James A. Gage

Imagine for a moment that there was a business that produced a wonderful income with virtually no competition, while helping people resolve business debt, IRS obligations and litigation out of court, along with knowing that you have made a business avoid filing bankruptcy, thus becoming viable again. Best of all you do not need a business or legal degree or background! What would you say?

Most people are tired of commuting to work every day and are frustrated that they are not able to earn the type of income to get the extras out of life. The advantages of your own Independent Arbitration business are endless, but most of all, you will have a feeling of accomplishment and fulfillment as you help people resolve their problems.

With Independent Arbitration you can have a successful and profitable business working from home. All you need to insure that success is a professional marketing plan, specialized training and a Niche. I would like to introduce to you Independent Arbitration.

Let me reassure you, first of all, the profession is a very simple business not requiring the normal start-up capital, employees, selling expenses, inventory, financing, office space or advertising one would engage in starting a new enterprise. You don’t need a specialized business education, law background, law degree or any special training other than our program. You don’t even have to contend with any governmental regulations, inspections, permits, bonds or licensing. In fact, the very plain truth is that Independent Arbitration is like nothing ever seen or offered before.

In my opinion, Debt Arbitration (which it's sometimes referred to) is better than any franchise, business opportunity, mail order or multi-level scheme. It’s significantly better than working 8-5 job. Independent Arbitration is a simple concept that literally thousands of businesses need year in and year out. You can have the prestige of a professional, the income of a lawyer, leisure time like a dentist and a business you can sell for significant money a few years down the road. No nights. No weekends. No stress.

Ok, now for the million dollar question how much money can you make with this business? The average case generates about $2,500 to $3,000, but higher cases abound. You can set your own fee schedule and your own hours of operation - it’s your business.

Whether you're looking for a career change or the ultimate home-based business, the Independent Arbitration field is for you! They say all journeys begin with a first step, why not call us today at 508-595-9567, and see how a career in Arbitration can and will change your life!

Home To Pick A Home Based Business

By James A. Gage

Browsing the internet there are literally thousands of business opportunity resources and a person often gets overwhelmed by the sheer choice of programs, and services.

When looking for a business opportunity you should look for 7 primary qualities:

1. Integrity : Does the company have a reliable track record/history?

2. Value : Is the company providing a valuable service/product?

3. Training : Do they provide you with quality one-on-one training and materials?

4. Support : Is it easy to contact them and do they reply in a timely fashion?

5. Compensation :Is your effort rewarded in a timely manner (Return On Investment)?

6. Investment : Does the opportunity require tens of thousands of dollars to get started, and years for you to recoup your initial investment?

7. Recession Proof : Can it be profitable in an up, down or side ways economic market?

All these qualities are important when choosing a business opportunity.

Too many people jump in to an opportunity such as MLM ( Multi Level Marketing) that promises them mountains of gold, only to find that they have been ripped off after the opportunity seems to have disappeared into thin air or has gone bust.

Another opportunity being marketed is that of the franchise. A franchise business is a method a company uses to distribute its products or services through retail outlets owned by independent, third party operators. The independent operator does business using the marketing methods, trademarked goods and services and the "goodwill" and name recognition developed by the company. In exchange, the independent operator pays an initial fee and royalties to the owner of the franchise.

The company that grants the independent operator the right to distribute its trademarks, products, or techniques is known as the franchiser. The independent, third party business person distributing the franchiser's products or services through retail or service outlets is called the franchisee. The franchiser charges hundreds of thousands of dollars for a license, and in addition may require annual payments to continue using their name and trade marks.

What ever business you choose to get involved with make sure it meets your budget and expectations! There is nothing worse then starting a business that becomes un-enjoyable, unprofitable, and finally becomes a 80 hour torture chamber.

That being said, why not look into the ultimate home based business opportunity -Independent Arbitration? Click on the link on the left side of this page labeled video, and see why you should get involved with this lucrative home based opportunity.

Is The Independent Arbitration Field Poised For A Growth Explosion?

by James A. Gage

With the recent bankruptcy changes signed into law by the President, how does this change the Independent Arbitration Profession? I believe this is exciting news for our profession- let me explain. Whether you are already in the profession or looking to get involved with this “Business whose Time Has Come" let me remind you why this is such a lucrative business and why it still is in it’s infancy.

The Demand for Professional Arbitration Services is Extremely High and Growing !

Professional Arbitration is a multibillion dollar industry. There are literally tens of thousands of unresolved Debt disputes. Until now, the parties involved had no option, other than to be dragged into the process of litigation (court) to try and salvage whatever possible. Independent Arbitration is the alternative.

You can earn income on a par with any Professional ! (Income potential is $7,000 - $35,000 or more per month full time)

The time for entering the Independent Arbitration Profession is now. Law suits and bankruptcies are at record levels. Until now consumers and business owners had no alternative but to use legal methods to resolve debt problems.

Litigation and Attorney costs are at a all time high.

Everybody involved is desperate for a viable alternative. The Arbitration and debt Arbitration Industry is experiencing very high growth in North America and across the globe.

Okay, with that being said how do the new bankruptcy laws play into this scenario? Prior to these changes in the bankruptcy laws all you would have to do is breath on a mirror in order to walk away from your personal and business debts- that has changed!

The laws in respect to Chapter 7 bankruptcy have changed drastically and now provide for repayment of debts if your income is above the poverty guidelines set in each state for example the poverty guideline in Massachusetts for a family of 6 is $56,000.00. If your business or personal income is above that guideline, you can file for bankruptcy protection, but you must make arrangements to pay back your creditors through a trustee of the bankruptcy court.

Here’s the good part for our profession: We as Independent Arbitrators can provide many other options to our clients then the legal system can in addition we can obtain better payment agreements and lump sum settlements for our clients.

In conclusion, you can see that there are going to be more litigations filed in the United States for delinquent accounts both on the personal and business venues then we have ever experienced before - this translates to more clients for our profession. It has been said we live in a very lawsuit crazy society, guess what? You haven’t seen anything yet.

Just How Bad is the Economy?

by James A. Gage

The total consumer debt reached $2.46 Trillion as of June 2007. In 1929 only 2% of homes were mortgaged. Now it’s nearly 99% ! Every year we set a new record for the number of people who file for bankruptcy - currently it’s nearly one million people per year throwing their financial future down the drain. The average debt per American household with at least one credit card is $8,940. Foreclosures are at epidemic levels across the country, coupled with soaring food, oil and gas prices.

Now let’s talk about small to mid cap businesses. The numbers cited above can be doubled or tripled for the small business or mid sized corporation! USA Today stated in a recent article that 2 out of 3 businesses are under financial attack and facing closure without any end in the trend!

It has been my experience that most businesses feel their only way of escape is bankruptcy; can you now see how important the independent arbitration profession is in these uncertain times?

Imagine helping a business stay viable through your negotiating skills, and getting paid handsomely for it.

By now, it should be clear to you just how large this problem is. And it will only get worse because the people in trouble don’t know how to get out of financial peril. They don’t know that there is an easy way to put an end to their problem; that is hiring a Professional Independent Arbitrator.

Negotiating For A Living

Hello All:

James Gage here; and I want to take this opportunity to thank you for stopping by my blog. Within the confines of this blog, not only will you find out how to become a world class negotiator but you will learn how to take these specialized tips and strategies and use them in a unique 5 figure income business opportunity – Independent Arbitration !

Please sign up for our Free Negotiating For Profit Newsletter, and don’t forget to view our video, which explains this unbelievable business opportunity.

Until next time, be well.

James A. Gage