Interesting Opportunity, Motivated Seller on Craigslist

[Brandon Z.]

Was browsing Craigslist and found what seems to be an authentic ad from a motivated seller. Home is in a small mountain town, fairly close to a major ski destination. 3bd/2ba, 1400 sq. ft. Built in 1904 (public record).

Seller is asking in the high $200Ks, which there is no way I'd ever consider. Place looks dingy, but mountain homes are at a definite premium. Thing is, public record indicates this home was last sold for $38K in 1979!

To me, this indicates that this woman owns the home free and clear and has all the opportunity in the world to let it go dirt cheap. Looks like it has been listed for a year or so, with some decrease in asking price over that year, but not much.

Her ad expressly asks for OFFERS and indicates she is looking for a quick sale, and she identified herself as motivated. What's more, public record indicates she lives in state, but hours away.

So...I've emailed her with my phone number and expect to hear from her. Any advice on how I might negotiate my way into an incredible deal? Is there anything to look out for if she actually has this listed with an RE agent?