You need to be prepared to be judged before someone will let you have their house.

When you’re looking to buy a property, it can be exciting and oftentimes stressful. While you are engaging in a simple exchange of money for space, people might be thrown off by one of several things. If you really want to buy that property, you should know that some real estate experts warn that certain phrases can give sellers second thoughts.

When it comes to how you SHOULD behave with a homeowner you hope to buy from, being complimentary and getting to know the person more personally will usually go a long way. On the other hand, you want to get into your new home as soon as possible. As such, you should always act polite and be friendly, but also get to the point and be concise about what you want.

When it comes to how you SHOULDN’T behave, try to avoid the things that often spark people’s passions in a negative way. Don’t be impolite, and always value the seller’s time, or they will notice and be offended. When it comes to writing, or any other form of communication, avoid any references to religion, including comments about wanting a nice place for ‘the holidays’ with family, regardless of what said holidays are. Unfortunately, many homeowners will look down on others who don’t share their religious views and it will ruin the deal for them. Another big problem many buyers bring to the table is desperation. Don’t show any signs of NEEDING the property, even if you’re just lightly joking with them. Don’t mention any closing leases, and try to align your moving date with the seller’s schedule as much as possible.