The Art of Negotiating

I feel like I'm stuck in the middle of a chess game.  On Saturday, after getting the seal of approval from my parents, I put in a bid on a condo.  And so began the negotiating.  Between the texts, e-mails, voicemails, and phone calls with my realtor aunt, I have become dizzy with the numbers game.

We came in super low, of course, because we want to get the best price.  I understand that move.  That's the right strategy, according to my aunt, considering the current state of the real estate market, economy, not to mention the unemployment rate.  I'm in control, so I've been told.  It sure doesn't feel like it!!!

Today I was given a number which I think sounds fair.  Although I feel pretty good about it, I had to call a couple of friends, plus my parents for moral support.  My friends said it sounded great - good price for the area.  My parents, on the other hand, had other thoughts.

Mom thinks that I should get a bigger place.  Bigger than 1000 square feet at this price in a desirable neighborhood?  Hmmmm... She obviously knows nothing about city living.  I would have to look further north into a sketchy area [read: time to get a gun].  Not gonna happen.

Dad thinks that we could still talk the guy down $5K.  Since I am unfamiliar with how real estate negotiating is supposed to go, I told him to call my aunt and discuss his thoughts with her.

Aaaaaccccckkkk...  What's a girl to do?

I need to sleep on this...