Counters?

jlovesky

In need of advice as we are new to this home buying game we have found a home in a very small town and made an offer. The sellers came back with a counter not much below list price and a bit higher than what would have been our ideal price. My hubby and I went ahead and agreed on that offer plus seller covering closing. We just had the inspection today which showed a few things that really do need fixing before we would move in. I personally want to ask them to lower the price some and we can do the repairs. Hubby wants to just ask them to fix and not counter as he doesn't want to lose the house. I don't want to lose out either but feel torn as where to go next...suggestions?

Sisugal

If they are safety issues, then ask for a reduced price (I prefer fixing things myself to control the contractor used etc)  If it is cosmetic - then continue with the original deal.

musictchr25

I would maybe give them both options. I personally would prefer to do the work myself, as I'd be sure that it was done properly, and not just to sell the house quickly, if you know what I'm trying to say.  

So, if you go back to the sellers with both options, I think that may help them feel a little less like they are losing more money on their home sale.  Plus, it doesn't seem that you really negotiated much with them, so they may be willing to go a little bit lower, knowing that there are some issues that need to be addressed.

What does your real estate agent think? They should be able to provide you with some more information too.

JoanE2012

We had a few things we wanted fixed.  We asked for a credit.  This way, we got the cash at closing so we could turn around and do the repairs.  Reducing the selling price really wouldn't have saved us much in terms of lowering our mortgage payment and we still would've had to pay out of pocket.  I'd rather have the cash.