Zillow Advice: Buying Process - Should I respond to sellers that are angry at me for offers that appear low to them?

No. The behavior of others ...

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 16:53:00 GMT

No. The behavior of others is no affair of yours. You didn't cause their upset. You can't cure it.
If a low offer upsets a seller, move on to someone who will appreciate your offer. Forget about the emotions of others. It's not your problem.

or you can give them 20% ...

Sat, 20 Dec 2008 20:46:00 GMT

or you can give them 20% more to make the seller happy if other peoples happiest is your concern.

most sellers are very picky and would hold on to their house as long as they can.

any offers shouldnt be in the 2003 price range considering the Market is going down hill right now. The Seller is very lucky to get an Good Credit Buyer thats interested in their house.

Not unless you are really ...

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 22:22:00 GMT

Not unless you are really interested in the property and want to negioate with them to a price you are willing to pay.

I ans the question backwards. ...

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:36:00 GMT

I ans the question backwards. If I represent my buyer who wants to make a very low offer. I will obtain all the repair estimates from the professionals and present the offer.

I will offer higher subject to repair estimate of $YYY,YY. The sellers are well aware of the defects and they may consider a more realistic price.

In this unsettled environment ...

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:26:00 GMT

In this unsettled environment sellers sell for a good reason. You need to
educate your clients and other agents how to work effectively together.

As a realtor I always advise selling(buying) agent call first
before making an offer. I ask what $ they have in mind see what is coming.
You also save other agent's time. You need to advise your clients in advance it is natural someone will throw something at you. Once they are educated by you, a professional agent, the can swallow it.
Sometimes low ball received is due to poor marketing. Is it presentable
and have been carefully staged to its best condition? If a house looks like a fix upper you get fix upper's offer.....