Negotiating tips for a better price

Once you've decided on a house that's in your price range you have to decide whether to pay the seller's asking price or negotiate for a better price. There are several things you should consider if you want to negotiate a better price:

• The sales price on other comparable properties in the area.
• What neighborhood the home is in.
• The number of people making offers.
• Whether it's a buyer's market (houses are plentiful and the buyer has the advantage) or a seller's market (houses are scarce and the seller has the advantage).
• Why the sellers are selling.
• Have the owners already found and bought another home.