Resources — Scripts & negotiation · 6 min

Offer & Negotiation Planner

A negotiation is won before the phone call: you know your maximum, their situation, and the evidence for your number. The planner keeps all three in front of you while you talk.

How to use this

Complete the 'before any offer' section first, then keep the sheet in front of you during every call with the agent — your maximum stays visible so the moment can't move it.

Download the PDF Run the numbers →

Before any offer

Maximum price from the deal analysis — written, dated, non-negotiable with yourself
Vendor situation from the agent: timescale, chain, why selling
Evidence pack: three sold comparables and your refurb total, ready to quote
Your proceedability proof: agreement in principle, funds statement, solicitor instructed

Structuring the offer

Open 8–12% below your maximum — enough room to move twice, not so low it insults
Attach the evidence, not apologies: 'based on the sold prices at №12 and №31, and £38k of works'
Lead with your strengths: speed, no chain, flexibility on completion date
Offer in writing to the agent the same day you speak
Give the offer a shelf life: 'this stands until Friday' — then let it lapse quietly

Handling the responses

'It's too low' — ask what number would do it today; never bid against yourself
Counter once, moving less than half the gap, restating the evidence
If they hold above your maximum: thank them and ask the agent to keep you first in line
Fall-throughs come back — a lapsed offer at the right number often gets a call in three weeks

After acceptance

Memorandum of sale issued within 48 hours with both solicitors named
Survey booked inside the first week — renegotiate on findings with quotes, not feelings
Weekly chase call to both solicitors, every week, without fail
Any renegotiation is evidence-first: the survey line, the quote, the revised number