Using the Better Than That Approach

After someone make you an offer accompany the offer with a disappointed or surprised expression. Tell them “You’ll have to do better than that!” Next, say nothing and wait for their better offer.

Example

At a garage sale you’ll notice that some individual’s price their unwanted possessions at exorbitantly high prices. They may do this for two different reasons. Either they expect you to negotiate the price down or they actually think their stuff is worth the premium it is priced (some people think their used junk is like gold).

In both cases you can use the Better Than That approach. By saying “You’ll have to do better than that,” you are pointing out that you are aware the other person is attempting to cheat you by charging an outrageous price or you may be bringing this to their attention for the first time.

This then puts pressure under the party to offer you a reasonable price.