You know the seller's asking price, but you need to decide how much you will offer.

Decide how much earnest money to offer. This deposit shows your true interest and desire to purchase the property for sale.  Your earnest money is usually held by the listing company until the sale is closed or the contract is broken. When the sale is closed, it is applied to the down payment or closing costs. But, if you fail to buy the house after the seller has accepted your offer, the seller has the right to keep this earnest money.

Specify your desired closing date and possession date. Allow yourself enough time to obtain financing.

Determine which items you may want to negotiate in the price you are offering. Items the seller may not necessarily be leaving behind may include any of the following: appliances, light fixtures, chandeliers, gas logs, fireplace tools, window coverings and swing sets.