Words That Convert: Phrases That Build Trust and Move Conversations Forward

Ever found yourself in a high-stakes conversation, wishing you had the perfect words to seal the deal? 

Whether you’re negotiating a real estate sale, guiding a client through a tough decision, or calming a tense discussion, the words & phrases you choose can make all the difference. 

Here’s why: The right words don’t just keep talks alive. They build trust, soften resistance, and drive agreements. 

This blog post dives into powerful, trust-building phrases for real estate negotiations that can turn challenging moments into wins. 

If you’ve ever felt stuck in a conversation, these tips are for you!

Why Words Matter in Real Estate Negotiations

In real estate, every conversation is an opportunity to connect with past, present, and future clients.

Using effective negotiation phrases in your communication can shift a client’s perspective, address their concerns, and create momentum toward a deal. 

What I’m talking about isn’t about slick sales tactics—it’s about speaking with empathy and clarity to build trust.

The Power of Trust-Building Phrases

The right words can transform real estate negotiations by fostering connection and confidence. Here’s what trust-building phrases can do for you:

• Deepen Connection: Phrases that show you understand a client’s needs, like “I see what’s important to you,” build stronger rapport.

• Defuse Objections: Calming language, such as “Let’s work through this together,” turns resistance into collaborative problem-solving.

• Encourage Decisions: Clear, confident phrases, like “Here’s how we can move forward,” guide clients toward actions like signing a contract.

  
  

Using words that click with your client creates trust and sets the stage for smoother, more successful real estate negotiations.

Sound good so far? Let’s dig deeper.

Key Phrases that Build Trust in Negotiations

Some phrases act like bridges, helping you connect with clients and keep talks on track. 

Here are a few you can start using today in real estate negotiations:

• “I hear what you’re saying, and…” - Validates concerns while guiding the conversation forward. Example: “I hear what you’re saying about the price, and let’s look at how this fits your goals.”

• “What’s most important to you in this deal?” - Invites clients to share priorities, showing you care and revealing their needs.

• “Let’s find a win-win solution.” - Sets a collaborative tone, keeping things positive and inclusive.

• “Based on recent market trends…” - Anchors your proposal in data, boosting credibility without sounding pushy.

These trust-building phrases are just a few options to help make your clients feel heard, fostering a partnership that drives deals forward.

Phrases to Keep Conversations Moving

As you probably already know, negotiations aren’t always smooth sailing. They can—and often do—hit snags…think indecision, objections, or hesitation. 

Here are a few conversation-moving phrases that build trust and will help you regain momentum without coming off as aggressive:

• “Can we dig into what’s holding you back?” - Gently uncovers objections, encouraging openness.

• “What if we tweaked the terms like this?” - Proposes creative solutions, like adjusting closing dates, to keep options alive.

• “Let’s break this down step by step” - Simplifies complex decisions, making the next move feel doable.

• “I’m confident we can make this work…here’s why…” - Demonstrates assurance while outlining a clear path forward.

These phrases turn potential stalls into opportunities, keeping your real estate negotiations productive and the client experience positive.

Avoiding Common Word Choice Mistakes

Even well-intentioned phrases can derail a conversation if they’re not used thoughtfully. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid in real estate negotiations:

Phrases to Steer Clear Of

• “You’re mistaken about that” - Sounds confrontational and shuts down dialogue.

• “This is your only option” - Feels coercive and erodes trust.

• “I’m not sure, but…” - Undercuts confidence. Instead, say something like, “Let me confirm and get back to you.”

• “That’s not possible” - Comes off as dismissive and inflexible, closing off creative solutions.

• “You need to decide now” - Pressures clients in a way that can sour the relationship and kill momentum.

By dodging harmful phrases and choosing words thoughtfully, you’ll create a conversation that feels like a partnership, not a battle. This kind of intentional communication will help you set the stage for real estate deals that close with confidence and trust.

Putting Trust-Building Phrases to Work

Words have the power to transform real estate negotiations, turning tense moments into opportunities for connection and agreement. 

By using empathetic, clear, and strategic phrases, you can guide clients toward decisions while keeping trust at the core. 

Ready to practice these communication skills for negotiation? Try incorporating one or two new phrases into your next client conversation and see the difference it makes.

What’s your favorite phrase for navigating a tricky negotiation? Share it in the comments below—I’d love to hear what works for you!

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About Kara

Kara Moll empowers busy executives to become confident and effective communicators, unlocking their full potential in both their personal and professional lives. As a real estate coach for Keller Williams MAPS Coaching, and one of Phil M. Jones' Licensed Guides in Exactly What to Say®, Kara combines her expertise with Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Energy Leadership Coaching to help clients achieve transformative results.

With over 20 years of experience in real estate, coaching, and training, she brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to every interaction. To take your communication skills to the next level, enroll in one of her upcoming workshops or events at www.karamoll.com/events