A seasoned real estate agent can help you with allthree of these items. They are experienced negotiators and have writtennumerous offers on all types of property. They are also familiar with themarket and neighborhood, and by using their expertise, will negotiate youthe best price.
Unless you have a buyer's agent, remember that theagent works for the seller. Make a point of asking him or her to keep yourdiscussions and information confidential. Listen to your real estate agent'sadvice, but follow your own instincts on deciding a fair price. Calculatingyour offer should involve several factors what homes sell for in the area, thehome's condition, how long it's been on the market, financing terms, and theseller's situation. By the time you're ready to make an offer, you should havea good idea of what the home is worth and what you can afford. Be prepared forgive-and-take negotiation, which is very common when buying a home. The buyerand seller may often go back and forth until they can agree on a price. Ifyou're buying a HUD home, you're required to use a real estate agent. Whilepurchasing a HUD home may be easier than many private real estate transactions,there are still some requirements which must be met, certain forms that must beused, and procedures that must be followed. But these requirements are clearlystated in advance, and the real estate agent will be there to help you throughit all. There are no negotiations between buyer and seller when you buy a HUD home. This can be a real advantage. There's no haggling about price--everythingis spelled out in black and white. In some areas, HUD may accept acounter-offer from you, but if your counter-offer is not accepted, the homegoes back on the market. What's more, HUD responds promptly to your offer, andif it is accepted, closing on the home will usually occur within 30 to 60 days.