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Where should I pitch an opening offer?

Dear all

Mrs & I are looking to place an offer on a property asking 125k, NW england....we have agreement in principle to cover the asking price price however....

1. been on market for 6m+
2. agent is is bairstow eves (countrywide group)
3. just don't believe any more than 115k is apt

I don't particularly like this estate agent! They seem even more 'in your face' than other agents. As the EA has all the experience and we have little, I'm wary of our insecurities being played on when I put that initial offer in....
Of course they will also see the agreement in principle before they pass on the offer, as mentioned covers to 125k

Would appreciate your experience in advising how I might play this.....it's hard to keep a cool head when you also really like the house too!

Many thanks all

Ethomasj

Comments

  • I'm in North West (Bury area) and my personal opinion (after looking for a house to buy for last 2 years) is that Bairstow Eves consistently overvalue.
  • moochd
    moochd Posts: 9 Forumite
    You dont need to show them you AIP.

    Depends on how much you want the property as to what offer you put in. But as a rule of thumb, I would make a max of two offers. if the second offer rejected, walk away. If you try and negotiate further, the EA will think they have you by the b***s.

    Just my two-pence anyway.

    Good Luck!!!
  • DVardysShadow
    DVardysShadow Posts: 18,949 Forumite
    I have never shown an offer in principle to an agent. And even if they want to see it before you offer, you can say that there is no accepted offer, so there is no point.

    If they cut up rough about not putting the offer forward you can say that you will contact the vendor direct. Whatever they say there is always an answer. Even if you can't think of one, you can walk out of their office and come here for inspiration.

    You could photocopy your offer letter and typex out the actual figure and photocopy again.
    Hi, we’ve had to remove your signature. If you’re not sure why please read the forum rules or email the forum team if you’re still unsure - MSE ForumTeam
  • poppysarah
    poppysarah Posts: 11,522 Forumite
    95.

    If you watched kirsty and phil last night you'd see how phil was proved wrong about putting in a very low offer.
  • edthomasj
    edthomasj Posts: 21 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture Combo Breaker
    Cheers folks. Much appreciated
  • G_M
    G_M Posts: 51,977 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Combo Breaker
    3. just don't believe any more than 115k is apt

    Then offer 115
  • Mark_Hewitt
    Mark_Hewitt Posts: 2,098 Forumite
    My house was on for 110k. I offered 95k thinking I wouldn't get it for less than 100k, but it was accepted!
  • DVardysShadow
    DVardysShadow Posts: 18,949 Forumite
    G_M wrote: »
    Then offer 115
    But start lower.
    Hi, we’ve had to remove your signature. If you’re not sure why please read the forum rules or email the forum team if you’re still unsure - MSE ForumTeam
  • JerKar
    JerKar Posts: 14 Forumite
    I would agree with starting lower than £115K. Better to work up as there is no scope to negotiate down (unless your offer is accepted and the survey flags up something, but that is some way down the line).
  • nollag2006
    nollag2006 Posts: 2,638 Forumite
    There is a really excellent thread here, that should give you some pointers:
    http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=1907059
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