In a Buyer’s market, Sellers are often faced with "low-ball" offers.  There are many aspects to an offer that can be attractive to a Seller in spite of the price, such as conditions or "subjects", the amount of deposit, dates, included items, etc..  Some Sellers, faced with a low priced offer, but few conditions, ideal dates, and no other wierd clauses in a contract, will take your offer more seriously than an offer that is cluttered with crazy conditions, and likely will negotiate a price that is a win-win for both parties.  If price is the most important consideration for you as a Buyer, you should be willing to make your offer as attractive as possible in all other respects.  Show that you are serious about buying the property, and not just out there trying to find a desperate Seller.  If the Seller gets the impression that you are not serious, they are not likely to negotiate with you.  I would also highly recommend that your own Realtor® present your offer in person to the Sellers, to "sell" your offer on its merits, instead of faxing it to the Listing Realtor®.  A good presentation of the offer from the Buyer’s point of view usually makes way for a good negotiation.  And lastly, make sure you understand when a good deal is a good deal, and don’t walk away from it because of some false perceptions of the market.