(Part 2 in a series of tips on how to negotiate successfully and keep emotions to a minimum when buying or selling a house.)

When negotiations get sticky and things seem to be going badly and you hate the whole damn process, just say to yourself, “It’s Only a Dream.” Not that the things that are happening aren’t real – they’re very much real and very important. But the point is, as in a dream, soon you’ll wake up and it will all be done.

Think of it this way: you only have to deal with these people for probably 30 to 60 days. After that, the deal will (or won’t) be struck and all the back and forth will have vanished. They will be out of your life, unless they happen to be buying the house next door. Instead of losing sleep, just stay focused and don’t get caught up in any of the other side’s tactics. The goal in the end is the house, either as a buyer or seller. Stick to plan and remember that it’s only going to be frustrating for what is, in the whole scheme of things, really just a little while.

Next Blog: It’s Chess, Not Checkers

For more information, contact Vanessa Saunders .