I'll just comment that it's a seller's market right now and I truly want to stress that phrase. My wife and I bid on four houses--we looked at a lot more--and do not think that you can maybe bid full and ask for anything on the back end like help with closing costs. Also, depending on the neighborhood, don't assume that you can bid full, pay your fair share of the closing and actually have your bid accepted--unless it's a crappy neighborhood. If you are bidding in North Natomas, or Tahoe Park, or any other desirable area at this point in time, then my advice is bid higher and ask for nothing. If you're bidding in sketchier neighborhoods, a solid bid is the way to go, but you might ask for a little off on the back end. If the house is overvalued, your agent should be able to tell you that there are no comps. Also, when the house appraises, you can use that as leverage too--unless the seller is adamant, which has happened.
