Hey Sarah, if the seller has an agent, it’s best to go through them first since they’ll likely get involved anyway.
For a property that’s been sitting on the market, approach with strategy. Avoid leading with a low offer or mentioning how long it’s been listed. Instead, start by sharing why you’re interested and ask questions to understand the seller’s motivation like, ‘Why do you think it hasn’t sold yet?’ or ‘What kind of offers have been made so far?’
Next, schedule a walkthrough to show you’re serious. This helps you stand out from the typical lowball inquiries the agent may have received.
After the walkthrough, if you’re ready to move forward, explain your reasoning. Let the agent know that while you’re interested, the property’s condition and local comps don’t justify the asking price.
Taking a warm, conversational approach can make negotiations smoother and improve your chances of getting the deal. Good luck!