Viewed a house twice in the last week. Great area (sw London), cul de sac, 11 years old. Has had tenants in it the last 5 years who have not looked after it - garden is thigh deep in dandelions, no fence around back garden, needs new carpet/laminate throughout, new oven, Prob new boiler, new front door, new shed etc. Has been for sale for 6 wks and has had no offers. On the market at £304,950 as a guide price.
We are FTB with a large deposit, and on Monday offered £285,000. Seller is divorcing husband, so they are selling it as it was a buy to let. Estate agent called yesterday 3 hours after the offer to say that the seller has been doing her sums, and can't really take less than £295,000. I told the agent we would continue looking though and to call me if any changes.
So what do we do next? Our absolute maximum is £290,000 as the work it needs is so extensive. Should I offer £290,000 as our final offer, or should I offer £287,000 first? And how long shall I leave it?