1) Know the property you are looking to buy or sell better than anyone else

2) Know what other comparable are currently available

3) Know what else has sold in the area that is comparable to the property

4) Understand the motivation of the seller is selling or the buy is buying

5) Know what is the most and least you are willing to pay before you walk into negotiations and what other concessions you expect and are willing to make

6) Always be mentally prepared to walk away

7) Use time to your advantage so make sure you have lots of it

8) Success is in the Detail, so dot your i's and cross your t's

9) Check your ego and emotions at the door and stay focused on your goals