It is best to submit a purchase offer only after you've researched everything about your probable home purchase. Submitting an offer to the seller is not the end of the home buying process. You may have to negotiate for the home's final price if the seller rejects your initial offer.

Studying the contract in detail and having a back-up plan are just two ways to prepare for the negotiation process. Barron's 'Consumer's Guide to Home Buying' explains that it is best to be prepared for price negotiations even before submitting an offer by creating a checklist of items to consider when negotiating. Here are some items you need to take into account when negotiating for the price of your new home:

1. Knowing who the decision-makers are in the transaction. Understanding who really calls the shots is a critical element in any negotiation. Is the seller working alone or do they involve their lawyers, accountants, agents or any other third parties in their transactions? You can adapt your negotiating approach and gauge the trustworthiness of the seller if you know who the decision makers behind the contract are.

2. Have a back-up plan. It is possible for you and the seller to reach a stalemate when negotiating. Consider developing a back-up plan just in case no agreements are reached during negotiations. Define your maximum offer and do not go over it; just look for other homes to buy.

3. Have you looked over all of the details of the contract? It's important to fully understand all of the terms of the contract so you're not left with any surprises at closing. Take the time to review the contract in as much detail as possible and note down any questions you have. Set up a meeting with the seller to go over anything that doesn't seem clear to you so you don't have any reservations about signing if you do get an accepted offer.

4. Be comfortable with your agent. Minnesota real estate agents can provide sound advice regarding the home buying process. Develop a positive relationship with them and learn how to trust them. Share your thoughts and worries regarding the property as early as possible. All your inputs will be taken by your agent in giving you expert opinion that will allow you to make the best decision possible.

5. Be prepared to handle negotiation setbacks. Poor communication happens in any negotiation often and you have to learn how to deal with it. There are other things as well that make negotiating difficult. It is important to remain impervious to negotiation setbacks but you have to know when to stop negotiating when you think the transaction is not going anywhere.