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Before you sign and think that price is the only thing that you can negotiate, let me tell you the way it really is. Every single thing in the contract to purchase is negotiable. Of course the main thing would be the purchase price, and if price is going to be your only issue, then set your maximum price and be willing to walk away. Besides the purchase price, you can negotiate the closing date in your favor, closing costs to be paid by seller, all repairs to be paid by seller and requesting possession of any fixture or piece of furniture in the house. Even when a house is listed for sale "as-is", a home inspection addendum can be added to the contract and will provide you negotiating terms that the seller still pay for repairs.
Keep in mind that too many contingencies and conditions in the contract to purchase might not make your offer price look as attractive. If the home has been on the market for quite some time, then you might have more room for negotiation. Take the advice from your real estate agent. Your real estate agent should not ever tell you the right price to offer, but the agent should be able to guide you in making an appropriate offer, with appropriate conditions. There IS such a thing as making to low of an offer. If you really want that house, then don't "lowball" the asking price, insulting the seller and losing all respect. If you are a buyer or investor that wants to get only the lowest price in town on a house, then that's when you would consult your real estate agent and put them to work for you. They know the market and will be able to find you the appropriate houses to get great deals on.
Negotiation is an art and great real estate agents are trained appropriately in this art. Find a great agent, be a loyal customer and your agent will work hark finding you the best deal in town.
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