01
Testing the asking price
This is the part I like. An asking price is a seller's opinion until somebody tests it, and that test is comparable sales. Sometimes the price moves. Sometimes the price is fair but there's room somewhere else: a home warranty, repairs, closing costs, or maybe a seller willing to paint before you move in. On a good price with three offers behind it there may be no room at all. Knowing which one you're looking at and how to approach it is most of the job.
Comparable sales
What the seller needs
Repairs & credits
Warranty & closing costs