A new roof vs. an old roof, an energy efficient AC unit vs. a window unit, etc. Factor in location, special features, potential repairs, recent home sales, neighborhood, etc. Most states require full disclosure of all material defects of a home, however, many problems may not yet be visible. The homes condition should be factored into all offers. It can also keep you from owning the home of your dreams.
Many sellers are understandably emotional when negotiating the sale of their home.
Go in with a clear idea of the home's value to you. Any repairs requiring completion as a contractual obligation should be complete prior to closing and subject to inspection. If they cannot, be sure to have the money needed to make repairs placed into an escrow account for your protection. Very few homes will actually be perfect, but many will likely come close. Real Estate Direct It is Illegal to Discriminate Against Any Person Because of Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Handicap, Familial Status, or National Origin in the sale or rental of housing or residential lots, in advertising the sale or rental of housing, in the financing of housing,in the provision of real estate brokerage services and in the appraisal of housing.