Buying a home is as much about strategy as it is about emotion. Sometimes, the hardest—but smartest—decision is knowing when to walk away.
Imagine this scenario:
- The house is listed at $1.4 million.
- Based on comparable sales and your realtor’s advice, you offer $1.2 million—though maybe you could have gone as low as $1.175 million.
- The sellers counter with $1.375 million.
At this point, it’s tempting to stretch your budget to meet them halfway. But the numbers—and your strategy—matter.
Step 1: Stick to Your Analysis
Your offer wasn’t random; it was grounded in data: recent comps, market trends, and your budget. If the counter doesn’t make sense, it’s okay to step back. Walking away doesn’t mean failure—it means you value your investment and your strategy.
Step 2: Keep Emotions in Check
It’s easy to get swept up in excitement—or fear—when you love a house. But emotional buying can lead to regret. Staying calm and rational allows you to negotiate from strength, not desperation.
Step 3: Leave the Door Open
Even if you walk away, don’t burn bridges. A simple, professional response like:
“We appreciate your counter. We’ll need to step back for now, but if your circumstances change, we’d be happy to revisit.”
…keeps the conversation alive. Sellers might reduce their price if the property sits longer, giving you another chance without starting over.
Step 4: Know When to Move On
Sometimes, the home simply isn’t the right fit—financially, strategically, or personally. That’s okay. The right home—and the right deal—will come along.
Negotiation is a balance of data, intuition, and patience. Walking away doesn’t close doors—it keeps opportunities open for the future. Stay professional, stay grounded, and stay ready. Because in real estate, timing—and relationships—matter just as much as numbers.
If you’re considering a move or investment and require a trusted Real Estate Broker, we’re here to assist you. Contact us via email at TEAM@McDanielCallahan.com, complete the form below, or give us a call at 925-838-4300. We are ready to provide expert guidance and support for all your real estate needs. Terry McDaniel DRE License #00941526
Find a Broker™ 