I've got a bad feeling about this...

[eee1313]

The Scientist called to say he's heard from Danielle. The owners have counter-offered with $207K. That's only 2% off the asking price which, in this market, is stupid. There's no way. The Scientist told Danielle we'll go up to $201K, and that we're "pretty firm" on that offer. That's 5% off the asking price, but seeing as how the exact same home with a deck in that same neighborhood sold for $200K last month, it seems fair.

We also found out that the current owner is a doctor who wants to sell and buy a bigger home. So he's not looking to move out of necessity, but out of want. That doesn't really play to our favor unless he's really greedy and wants a big house now. But I get the feeling he's not willing to settle for anything less than 2% off, much less 5% off (even though it's a fair price for the current market).

It's not over yet, but it doesn't look good. C'est la vie. And it's not like we need to move, so we're still in prime position to buy right now. And it's not like the market is going to turn next month or anything, so we're still in good shape. It's just a bit disheartening to think it won't work.

Comments

[disbelief11.livejournal.com]

I'll keep my fingers crossed for the two of you.

Remember, though, even if you don't get this house, there are many more lovely houses out there, just waiting for you. Plus, if this one doesn't become yours, that just gives you more time to pay off more debt and such.

[nutmeg3.livejournal.com]

I've been away, so I've been reading but not getting a chance to comment. Anyway...don't sweat it. This is what real estate negotiations are like, and you can analyze 'til the cows come home, but you never really know what's in people's minds, because emotions and egos are tied up in it, often much more than logic, so people do all sorts of wacky things. One of my best friends is a longtime realtor, and she sees it from both sides, seller and buyer. There's still plenty of hope for you to get this house, but if you don't, well, there's never just one house. Now you and your agent have a better idea of what you like, and she can focus her search even better from here on. Also, at least around here, you guys are prime buyers, because you're ready to go and your offer's not dependent on selling something else first, so that'll work in your favor.

Good luck!

[ottomatic02.livejournal.com]

We made offers on three places with various problems cropping up before we found our current place. When Six mentioned the listing for our current place, I said flatly, "I am NOT wasting my time looking at that UGLY HOUSE!" Looked, loved, purchased. Never would have found it if things had worked out with the first couple of deals. When it's right for you, it's going to work.