Here is where the realtor earns his/her commission. When you have made up your mind and want to make an offer on a Miami Beach home, let the realtor do all the lifting and toting. Give the realtor a list of bargaining points that you want discussed with the homeowner. Be sure that the offer is made in writing, and that the bargaining points are included in that offer. In most states, the offer is usually accompanied by a payment of earnest money, which in most cases is not refundable unless agreed to prior to the offer. It is usually an agreed-upon percentage of the total offering price. Here's a list of things that need to be done when you make an offer.

• Hire an appraisal firm to appraise the home so that you have a true understanding of the potential value of the property.
• Have the realtor complete the written offering, including any bargaining points, and examine it prior to the realtor delivering it to the seller.
• Do not directly contact the seller in order to circumvent the realtor. It's unethical and likely illegal.
• Be patient, the process takes time. Be ready to play give-and-take on your bargaining points.
• If the seller rejects your offer, ask the realtor to determine the reason.
• Also inquire as to whether the seller has an absolute final price that is acceptable. Most do, but they won't say what it is until someone has made an offer.
• If the "knockdown" price is too high for you, back off and look at other homes. Many sellers will soften when they see the money driving away.
• If you don't get the home, it wasn't meant to be. Move on and look elsewhere.