Scott Donnellan's Q&A

No.  They got rid of the enhanced star which was the extra check that we received in the spring.  The exemption is still there however.

30 % off of asking price is a perfect way to turn off the seller.  There is no general rule of thumb,  but it depends on home by home.  A 30 % off asking price is an insult to the sellers however and not in your best interest if you want the home.  Hire a Buyers Broker to run comps for you.  Don't believe the hype the market is not as bad as it is nationwide. 

The best thing to do is to work with a Realtor - do not pay for any of the lists as they are usually not up to date.  Most foreclosures are not great deals unless you are a cash buyer,  and if they are good deals you need an inside track to have a chance.  For instance most agents who have foreclosures know about them months before they actually list the property which is why you are best working with a Broker.