You should be in the ballpark with $430,000. Keep in mind that homes in that price range that are in very good condition often result in bidding wars--look at as many as possible to better your odds.

Before the explosion of prices starting back in 2000, if someone made an offer 10% to 15% below the asking price, it wasn't considered a low ball offer. Therefore, $430,000 is probably not too high. You could actually go a little bit higher. I would recommend that you interview one or two certified buyer representatives to assist you. I'm not sure if you know but when you purchase a house, you're already paying a commission - it's built in to the sales price. Why not have an agent that is working FOR you instead of merely WITH you. There's a lot more to it but that's basically it. If you're also selling a home, unless you can carry two mortgages (most people can't), then you need to get that home sold first. I would be pleased to speak with you about your home buying/selling issues and provide whatever assistance you need. Feel free to contact me at any time. Good luck.

Ralph Windschuh
Century 21 Princeton Properties
631-467-0009
rwindschuh@c21princetonproperties.com

You are listed as both a buyer and a seller. First of all, get a current market analysis on your current home if you are planning to sell it or lease it so you get a true picture of the funds you will have to work with in purchasing a new home.

Second, contact a mortgage broker to see how much they are willing to lend you so you have a true picture of what you will be able to afford.

Thirdly, and to answer your question more directly; if a seller is selling at current market price, you can expect to pay close to current market price. If they are foolishly asking over market, you will pay that much less if they are willing to accept it.

What I recommend is to hire a Realtor to represent YOU. Your Realtor will then do market comps in the areas that interest you and let you know what you can reasonably expect to pay in that area.

Hopefully, that will give you a better idea of where you can look and comfortably afford.

Please feel free to contact me with any further questions Gail@GailGladstone.com

Now a days you NEVER know how much someone is willing to take to hurry up and get rid of their property. I think 410-430 could potentially close at 390 or so.

On the market now you have 14 houses to choose from under 399k. You probably have enough to choose from at that price point to get a deal at 380.

If you have your pre-approval in place and you make good offers you will get a house very quickly, very easily.

Let me know if your interested in seeing some houses this weekend, I am available to show..

Good luck to you.