Discussing Terms and Making an Offer

[Chris Mylan]

Hello Everyone,

I came across a great property in the Pittsburg, Pa area and am close to making an offer. Since this is my first purchase I'm working with a buyer's agent who (I assume) will be the primary contact between the seller and myself.

In short, the property is selling for roughly $155,000 and I would like to make various minor upgrades which will be no more than $5,000. To stay within budget I would like to purchase the property for $140,000 (which I think is a fair price), but do not want to offend the seller.

My question(s) are how can I use terms in the negotiating process to hit my price point? Or what have you all conceded in past deals to make a low offer more palatable to a seller? And finally, would you recommend a blog/webinar that would help me understand the various closing terms in a deal?

Thank you for the help!

Chris