torn between 2 listings

**jojo** · 03-01-2010, 11:58 AM

Here's my situation:

Beginning of Feb, found a coop in forest hills that I really liked, thought was a good deal so made an offer and it was accepted. Haven't submitted my loan app or coop app, have not signed any contract (only the offer proposal). No money put down yet. I also do not have an agent.

But I just came across another listing in the same building, for sale by owner; so here are the comparisons:

apt #1=400 sq ft. asking 118k offered n accepted 115k, faces back of bldg, completely renovated
apt #2=400 sq ft. asking 108k, corner unit, sunny, over looks park only shareholders have access too, not renovated but i'm ok with it. better layout.

What is the best and respectable thing to do if I decide to go with #2? The only thing that make me hesitate is I feel bad to waste the seller agent time. But if I find something that I like more i should go for it right?

help!

**Chrisopher Moltisanti** · 03-01-2010, 12:43 PM

Well, if you didn't hand any money over or sign a contract, then go for what you want: #2.
Just be humble in your apology to the selling agent. After all, not all verbals go through anyway.

Just be humble but don't bend over. In twenty years it's not going to mean anything.

CM

**jojo** · 03-02-2010, 12:34 PM

Thank you Christopher!

I now have another question:

I've been doing my research and found that the seller of apt #2 bought his studio for $105K 2 yrs ago and is now asking $108K.

How should I negotiate the offer so I don't insult him? He has not renovated anything. All original cabinets etc.

Would $100K be too low?

**Chrisopher Moltisanti** · 03-02-2010, 01:10 PM

Miss, a place is only worth what you think it's worth. If you feel his place is worth a large bag of fries then so be it. All he can do is say no and not even negotiate. Start low, and have a target price in mind. Your target is $100K? Fine, then start at $85k and see what he says and don't go over $100k. Don't get too attached, don't say anything nice about it, you'll be showing your hand. If he balks, and walks away, then it's up to you on how bad you want it. If he walks away without even negotiating, he doesn't want to sell it that bad. Fuggetaboutit.

Good luck.
Forest Hills, Queens. Nice area. Got a friend George who lives in that area.

CM