How do you know what to offer? When you decide - this is it! - it is important to get a comparative market analysis. Look at similar properties that are or have recently been on the market, just like an appraiser will do. Sellers can ask whatever price they want - you need to decide what the home is actually worth - and worth to you.

Typically, you will compare elements such as square footage, age of the home, number of bedrooms and baths, size of major rooms and amenities such as fireplaces and swimming pools. You may also review property taxes and school districts, and how long each property has been or was on the market. Using all this information, you can come up with a probable market value for the home you’re interested in.

It's also important to take into account the market and competition. Is it is a strong buyers’ or sellers’ market? In a buyers’ market or a neutral market, you may have more leeway on some of the elements of your offer (price being just one). In a sellers’ market, where houses can become the objects of bidding wars, and end up selling well above their asking price, your options may be rather limited. Other factors will come into play in determining your offer price and our job is to help you make the best qualified offer for your needs. Please allow us to help you navitgate this challenging step of the process.