Buyer discount in a slow Market?

Question: In a slow real estate market, what percentage can a buyer expect to save from an original asking price. Can a person save 5 percent? Ten percent?

Answer: There's no general rule which says that buyers are somehow entitled to a given discount in a slow market. Instead, you have to look at every transaction as being unique and consider such issues as the initial offering price, any seller contributions or concessions, the condition and location of the property, demand in the local area, the interest rate and the need for the owner to sell. Add it all up and a 10-percent discount may be too little, meaning you'll overpay for the property; just right, meaning both you and the seller will agree to a given price and terms; or too much, meaning the owner can do better with another buyer and you'll lose the house.