ahhh - big deal, asbestos in the ceiling...lol

I'm sure the seller isn't going to be happy that they've got to have that removed (if it is asbestos). I would do what has been suggested by previous posts - get a sample and have it tested by a professional. Obviously, have a professional take the sample and test it. Do NOT break the ceiling yourself or the seller shouldn't either.

Asbestos is only harmful if it is broken or damaged (frayed or chipped).

Now, if you want to buy the home - then work out a deal. I WOULDN'T just jump to a conclusion and say "it's the sellers responsibility". And I'm not so sure that you can't still close and take care of it yourself.

IF YOU PUT IT IN THE CONTRACT - then yes, it will have to be done BEFORE you close.

let me repeat that - IF YOU PUT IT IN THE CONTRACT...

I'm not an attorney, but if you have a good attorney - and you REALLY want this house, then you may have to work out A DEAL with the seller.

that's all. This is NOT the end all be all.

If you and the seller AND YOUR ATTORNEYS make it out to be a mountain, then traversing the terrain will be extremely rugged. If you just treat it for it is - a simple fix (a test first) - then this will get done.

If you've got a realtor helping you and THEY are treating it like it's some MONUMENTAL deal, then you're done.

It's a real estate transaction - not a NASA Rocket Ship being sent into space to save humanity.

Be cool and you'll get your house.

Do you have an agent and if so what is he/she advising...one could always request that a sample be sent to a lab for analysis, in order to verify, or not, any asbestos presence in the ceiling--your agent and or attorney can best advise as to your options, negotiations, etc., if asbestos is found.

I seriously doubt that the popcorn does indeed contain asbestos. I suggest you contact Servpro. They can and should be willing to guide you through the analysis of the content of the ceiling application. The average price of replacing a ceiling, which would certainly be wise if you care to, should not cost more then $22.00 - $30.00 per square foot. Servpro is an environmental company and can be looked up on Google. You can contact me through this portal if you have any further questions.

If it is truly asbestos (inspectors are not always correct) it is considered an environmental problem and that is always the responsibility of the seller. Therefore, cost of doing so should not concern you.

Seller must do it; you will not be able to close with an environmental issue such as asbestos.