Shall we dance?

Making an offer has been the most nerve-wracking part of the homebuying process so far. In a market like Boston's where prices are absurdly high and the future of home values uncertain, the weight of two simple questions seems crushing: Do we want this house? And how much are we willing to pay?

The first decision has become a little easier over time. The more we've shopped, the more we've learned about what we want, and the faster we recognize a winner.

How much to offer, though –- that one still keeps us awake at night. Our broker's advice neatly sums up the challenge: high enough to be of interest to the seller, but low enough that we don't leave money on the table. Picking a number seemingly requires the wisdom –- not to mention the treasury -- of Solomon.

Each time we make an offer, we invite the sellers to that intricate dance so familiar to anyone who's bought or sold a house. Will they counter-offer? Will they gratefully accept? Or will they simply walk away, leaving us like wallflowers at the prom?

Twice now, we've had bruising wallflower moments. Last week, we gave it another go with a lovely house in our favorite neighborhood. After a bit of quick negotiation, guess what? They said yes.