As an agent, it’s easy to get excited when a client makes an offer. But one mistake I see over and over is celebrating too soon—saying “congratulations, you own the property” before you have offer and acceptance.
Why Early “Congratulations” Can Backfire
Remember: the owner decides, not the agent. Until the property owner formally accepts the offer, the deal isn’t finalised. Premature celebration can confuse your clients and even jeopardise the negotiation.
The Professional Approach
Instead of saying “you own it,” try:
“I think you’re in a strong position with this offer. Let me present it to the owner and see if we can get offer and acceptance for you.”
This approach helps you:
- Set realistic expectations for your client
- Acknowledge the owner’s decision-making role
- Maintain a professional, trustworthy process
The Power of “Saying Yes Slowly”
Patience is a key habit of high-performing agents. By waiting for formal acceptance, you:
- Avoid misunderstandings and disappointment
- Keep negotiations smooth and professional
- Protect your reputation and your client’s trust
- Increase your chances of successfully securing the property
Quick Tips for Agents
- Confirm offer and acceptance before telling your client it’s theirs
- Communicate next steps clearly
- Respect the owner’s authority to accept or decline
- Focus on process and precision, not just excitement
Final Thought:
Successful agents know that deals aren’t won by excitement—they’re won by patience, communication, and proper implementation. Saying yes slowly and waiting for offer and acceptance ensures a smooth, professional experience for clients, owners, and you.
If you want more strategies to improve your listing win rate, I’m running a 2-day Agent BootCamp in Sydney and Melbourne. This is your chance to master the skills, influence, and systems used by 50% of the REB Top 100—giving you the tools to dominate your market without burning out.
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