I tell buyers and sellers that when an offer is on the table, both parties have three choices:  Yes, No, or Maybe.  The preferred response – of course – is Yes or Maybe.  When a seller comes back with “No” the negotiations are done, ended, vamoose.

My friend Elizabeth from Huntsville, Alabama demonstrates the point with a story she shared today about her buyers last year and where the sellers are today after they soundly rejected an offer,

My buyers have now built their dream home across the street from this very home. …For less than they were willing to purchase that home for.  The declined offer home has not yet sold and is now on agent number 2, with a $61,500 price reduction.  My buyers offered them more than they are now willing to sell for.  Pride got in the way.

Never say no if you’re serious about selling.  Never let a thousand dollars price difference prevent you from buying or selling a home.  If you’re a buyer, paying $1,000 more is about $6 p/month more… a lunch at McDonald’s.

Put aside your pride… some things are bigger than that.