When you prepare an offer to purchase a home, you already know the seller's asking price. But what price are you going to offer and how do you come up with that figure? There are several steps to review before deciding which price to offer the seller.

---

First, compare recent sales of similar properties to come up with a price range. Then review additional information such as the condition of the home, improvements made to the property, current market conditions, and the circumstances of the seller. This will help you settle on a price you think would be fair to pay for the home.

The county recorder's office publishes home sale data approximately six to eight weeks after the sale. You may also be able to acquire this information more quickly from your real estate agent. Your real estate agent has access to the public records and the Multiple Listing Service.