As a REALTOR®, the majority of your time will be spent managing your various relationships with clients. Unfortunately, just like any other relationship in your life, there will come a time when you become the bearer of bad news. Whether it’s losing out on a dream home or that the inspection headed south, bad news in real estate comes in all shapes and sizes. However, there are a few ways that can help you let your clients down easy—without hindering the relationship.

• Provide an actionable solution.
  Consider this the first step. Before you deliver any type of bad news, you’ll want to develop a plan. From expanding the search criteria to reevaluating your negotiating tactics, create a viable solution to rectify the situation. Try to focus the conversation around what you’re going to do to help. Offering a solution will help you regain your clients’ trust and compel them to move forward with you. It can also do wonders for your confidence and will get you back in the game.
• Tell the truth and nothing but the truth.
  In all areas of life, honesty is most definitely the best policy. Although being direct may seem abrasive, getting to the point is actually what your clients prefer. In fact, they’re not interested in listening to a long-winded excuse as to why something didn’t work out. Let them know the facts, apologize, and then tell them how you’re going to solve it. This will show that you’re confident and well-equipped to deal with any type of issue.
• Grasp the gravity.
  Working with other human beings requires a large amount of empathy. That being said, be sure to always put yourself in your clients’ shoes. It’s best to show that you grasp the impact right from the beginning of the conversation. Understanding the severity of the situation will help you relate to your clients on a more personal level. Displaying your empathy will also prove that your clients’ satisfaction is one of, if not your biggest, priority.

Delivering bad news is never easy, but using these tactics will make it easier for both you and your clients. Remember—your success relies heavily on your clients’ satisfaction.