legality and morality

[Jacob Butler]

I had an idea the other day, and I was just trying to touch base to see how other people feel about it, basically it entails, having a friend or partner low ball a property harshly that way when you give your offer (which is still a bit low) it seems like a diamond in the rough, any thoughts? I know it's legal, but I'm not sure how ethical or even if that really matters long term, more interested in how other people feel about it. Also I haven't done this, it's more of a passing thought

[Steve Karp]

It goes to character and integrity.  If I were the seller, I'd use your own questionable intent to get my price.   You: I'll offer you $81.  Me: I have other offers, submit your highest and best by 5 pm today.

You don't know if that phony offer is the only offer I have. But it is an offer none the less so my words are 100% true. You might submit an offer more than the $81, stick to the original offer or walk away. Doesn't matter to me. I called your bluff, you called mine. An experienced REI would look at the Multiple offer comment and expect that offers in hand were less than list or I would have accepted that other offer. Or the terms may not be to my liking, regardless of price. Yes, its a negotiation game. My personal opinion, No its not authentic to waste anyone's time with BS bids. There's a lot of Karma in this game and its a small world. What comes around go around. Shady tactics will be revealed and you'll cross paths with others at some point. If you want long term success and a reputation that's respected, do things as a professional would and you'll get professional results.