Should I counter my offer off of the seller's word?

[Benjamin Blackburn]

Hello everyone, I'll be quick. I offered on a seller's house two days ago and she called me back today stating that someone else has another offer for a lot more. Do I take her word and counter or should I ask her for proof of the other offer? I feel like she's honest but you never know. Thanks

[Devin Morgan]

You should be making offers based on numbers. If your math allows it I suppose you can. Keep in mind sometimes people say that to try and drive the price up and get the most for their property but I look at it like this, if she truly had such a high offer why would she still entertain you if you low-balled her? Either way stick to the numbers. If your math allows it sure. If it's still a helluva deal then sure. If it isn't then don't. If she wants more for the property let someone else pay more for it.