redactedAt what point in a negotiation do you ask for seller financing, and what changes if you ask before vs. after you've anchored a price? When you bring up seller financing, are you asking because it's strategically necessary for the deal to work—or because you're testing whether the seller will finance it themselves? And how does that distinction change what you ask for and when? Necessity vs. optionality — Is seller note core to your capital stack (you need it) or a negotiating lever (seller might do it if positioned right)? Timing — Do you surface it early when negotiating price, or late when the seller is already emotionally invested? Framing — Does asking signal strength (you have options, seller note is just better) or weakness (you need their help)? Seller psychology — A seller who finances is more aligned with earnout/reps & warranties, but also expects better terms if carrying paper I have used both approaches. I have asked the seller if he/she is open to seller finance from the beginning and I have asked for seller finance to get the deal to work. Both times it depends on how large the transaction is. What are your thoughts?