Real Estate

So, My FI and I have been looking into buying a house. We just got approved for our loan today. Now to make an offer on a house. I was just wondering if any of you had any experience in this. We don't know how much to offer the first time. Here is a link to the house.

Stephenville Texas Real Estate Stephenville Texas Lake Front Real Estate Stephenville TX Real Estate

They are asking 268,500. Any advice??

Are you using a realtor?? That's your best resource for local market info & comparable sales date....

Yeah, I am. She is representing the Seller though too. So, I don't really want her advice LOL. It's a small town so she is really my only choice.

Oh wow, that kinda blows. Although, technically, interoffice sales can be less stressful because the information flows more freely. Why don't you request a comparable sales analysis from your realtor - this is factual data that can help you. She shouldn't have a problem generating that for you. OR, you can go to Real Estate Valuations, Homes for Sale, Free Real Estate Information | Zillow Real Estate to get a feel for recent sales prices of homes in the same neighborhood.

Awesome! Thanks so much. It is kind of overwhelming when you have no idea what you are doing.

Sorry no advice yet, we're not house hunting until after the wedding, BUT I wanted to say thats a lovely home you're interested! And I sure wish I lived in your town, I couldn't get a house that nice where I live for under $400K!

Kathi, have you signed anything with the realtor saying you'll use her service? If not, have you tried contacting some of the realtors close to Stephenville? I know there's a Century21 in Glen Rose that works the Stephenville area. The real estate licensing is at a state level, so technically, a realtor from FW or Waco could assist you--- most don't because of how long the drive would be to show homes in Stephenville--- but since you know which home you want and are just looking for independent advice during negotiation, maybe someone would represent you just for that portion of the work....

in the markets that i am familiar with (not yours!), i'd usually offer something like $245K or something, and expect to meet somewhere in the middle. but again, it depends on your market, and also the current condidtions, how long it's been on the market, etc.

DO NOT FEEL BAD if you decide to change realtors!! I suffered from similar feelings about mortgage brokers. You are money to them, so you need to make sure you are happy & comfy with the professional you chose to represent you. I know girl, this is a stressful thing - buying a house - and it's not time to set aside your best interest.