There are a number of reasons to have the seller walk away from the negotiation table feeling satisfied, rather than defeated. Your buyer's agent should help you to negotiate in a win-win scenario even when it is a buyer's market.
They'll be motivated to turn the property over in tip top condition. You don't want an angry seller left behind or worse reneging on contracted agreements to include window treatments, lighting fixtures, appliances, or other equipment or furniture along with the property. You'll be legally in the right to demand that such things be given to you, but you don not want to go through the headache and expense of a lawsuit. It's much better not to create any ill will.
They'll cut you slack if and when you need it. Problems always come up. You might need another month to come up with the closing or you might have a family emergency that makes it hard to close on the set date. Having a seller who feels like a partner and not an adversary, can often smooth over such difficulties.
They possess valuable information about the property. You may have all the manuals and warranties to appliances, heating and air conditioning units, and other home equipments, but there's still no way you'll be able to understand all the quirks of your new home. It's invaluable to have a friendly seller who's willing to go over the property with you before closing or who will be available by phone after you move in.
They have friends and acquaintances in the neighborhood. You're getting ready to enter a new community. A angry seller could poison the atmosphere before you go to the first block party. It's better to have the seller spreading the good news about the wonderful new occupants.
