I always provide my client with a market analysis so they will know the average price of homes in the particular area. From that analysis I always ask that my clients consider what they think is a fair price if they truly want the home. Even though I will represent the buyer, because I am a fair and ethical person I prefer if they don't make a ridiculous offer that they know will be rejected. It is my duty to submit whatever price they offer, however there is no magic number that I recommend they submit.

Karla Dawson

Georgia Law requires that the agent make whatever offer you ask them to make and the seller's agent must present it to the seller. It does not mean that the seller has to respond to your offer - they may accept, reject or counteroffer.

Ask your agent to do a CMA of the properties that have sold in the neighborhood in the last 6 months to get an idea of what the property's value should be in today's market. If you don't already have one, I suggest you find an agressive agent and sign a buyer's brokerage so that agent can give you specific advice and work for you in your best interest.

Good luck.

You can go where you want to start on pricing. I am aware of one home where the buyer used 15% under list for his stratagy.
They paid 207 for a home in a 170 neighborhood. A buyer working with me would have know the area values and never made an offer like that.

There is no magic percentage in any market - if the home that you are interested in is already priced well, it could even sell for over asking price - I ran across this 3 times in the past month while showing a buyer in metro Atlanta.
I'm not advising that you make any type of offer until you consult with your own buyer agent who can examine recent comparable sales, help you evaluate the potential resale value and condition of the home.
Making a decision to buy right now is the #1 right move for you. #2 is making the most of this great buyer market - work with an experienced buyer agent - it costs you nothing and can save you thousands.
If you need a referral for a great buyer agent in your area, send me a private email and I'll be happy to help you with that.

Good luck.
Stephanie McCarty
REMAX Greater Atlanta
404-457-8089
slmrealestate@earthlink.net