I can create a Comparative Market Analysis that will list the previous year's listings for the desired neighborhood and property or homes. I can check to see how long the home has been listed and whether the seller has reduced the original asking price. Remember, the more competition for the house, the closer the offer should be to the asking price. You can pay for an appraisal, but that could consume valuable time you may not be able to afford and normally the Seller pays for the appraisal. My duty is to obtain the best price for my clients.
Most closing costs are subject to negotiation.
I can suggest some general guidelines as to who traditionally pays for what but each deal is usually different than the last one so my suggestions may be different considering the circumstances. In Alaska a Seller is required to disclose all known defects in writing, however I always recommend making the sales agreement contingent upon a satisfactory professional inspection. An inspector's job is to point out any existing or potential areas of concern. You should be there with the inspector as I will be. I can furnish you a list of licensed inspectors if you desire.