If it has not, then there is a good chance the sellers are prepared to accept a lower price. In order to leave room for negotiation, it is customary for a seller to start out with a higher asking price than they intend to receive. If the seller bought the house many years ago, they may have paid considerably less than the house is worth now. Also, their mortgage may be completely paid. If they are not bound to pay off a mortgage, they may be more willing to accept a lower offer.
Sellers are often willing to leave certain household furnishings behind.
Some items may not be needed in their new home, styles may be different, or it may be more convenient to replace particular items than to move them. On the other hand, sellers may take all of these items when they move. It is important to know how many of these expensive items will be left behind so you can determine which ones must be purchased right away. Your purchase agreement, which we will discuss later in this chapter, may include any items that you would like the seller to leave behind. Financing terms There are two aspects to making an offer on a house.