Both tell the truth and put a positive spin on it, there is opportunity in every situation

I see myself as a consultant. I provide the data and allow them to make the final informed decision. The public needs to see our profession as one who is there to serve them and not one who is only thinking of $$$.

It is an honor to be asked for my professional opinion and this honor is not taken lightly.  I'll answer the question honestly and to the point.  I know how to sell in any market and there is always a reason that now is the best time to sell or buy a home.  So distorting the truth is unnecessary.

I tell them the truth and do what I can to keep it positive.

I usually have to preface that what I say is what's happening right here and right now despite what they read or hear in the media. My only concern is what is going on around me and not necessarily in other places of the Country. 

I give both sides of the picture - both the seller and buyer sides. 

it's either going up or coming down... spin the wheel and see where it lands...

Hmmm,

I wold need to know what 'slowing down' means?

Seasonal? Economic? Environmental? etc.

If slowing down means one part if the market is being squeezed, I identify where the balloon is expanding in other segments.

I find the words, 'Now is a great time to buy' simply does not fit the integrity of my tongue. 

Debbie,

The truth is what we should tell people.  How else can you be trusted by someone?  You don't even need a spin, because regardless of the state of the market, there is always something selling, and that is positive.  A

I tell the truth AND put a positive spin on it.  Yes, the market is cooling off for the holiday season, but homes that are priced well and expertly marketed by me are selling! 

I just sold two this week, so it is happening!

First, I always tell the truth, Debbie Reynolds.  

My market is sort of a yin-yang thing.  Under $300K is a pretty robust sellers market, then it's balanced and over $400K it's a strong buyers market.  Of course it also varies from area to area, by school district, and all of that.  

But it is still a good time to buy in my market, I believe. Rates are still quite low, we're seeing appreciation, and frankly, you cannot rent cheaper than your mortgage payment in my area either.

I always tell the truth because in the end it will bite you in the A--.

 I love when a client asks me about the market. I have ready data in easy to read charts that I'm happy to share. Approach it as an opportunity to educate and start a discussion about their needs and how it fits into the market trends.

It is always best to tell them the truth, but keep it positive.  There is always a positive side to everything.  We just have to find it.

If you want to keep a new client, the truth is the best.   They will appreciate and trust you from that day forward.

Well,  whenever someone is really ready to buy...I think it's a good time!

No spin, giving real reports on the state of the market is what our responsibility is.

no matter what is going on, there is a winner and a loser... point out the winners

I tell it like it is, but I do my best to explain why the market is the way it is. In my case it's usualy seasonally affected. 

Being honest whether negative or positive

I am not a used car salesperson or one of those annoying people that chase you down at the mall trying to get you to switch phone carriers.  Now might not be the best time for everyone on the plant to buy a home.   Each person needs to figure that out for themselves, if they need ME to motivate them to buy a house, they shouldnt be buying nor do I want to spend time working with them.

Truth teller here, and in reality what is good for a buyer is not always good for a seller. Sometimes what is good for the seller, is not good for the buyer. Just depends where the client is in the process.