QUESTIONS ON FIRST DEAL

[Stanley Mathis]

I am currently in the process of inking my first deal on a duplex. As of right now, the seller has accepted my offer and my realtor is drawing up the contract. What are good ways to push half (or all) of the closing cost onto the seller? Also, is it necessary that I get a lawyer during this period to ensure the contract is good or would I be fine just thoroughly going through it myself??