In a market where demand is strong and it has become more difficult to figure out how much buyers are willing to spend, how do real estate agents determine the right asking price for a house?
      It has never been an exact science. These days, agents often find themselves starting at a higher price than is borne out by the facts and go from there.
      Supply and demand, of course, dictate asking price. Obviously, if the supply is low, the asking price will have to be adjusted upward to meet it. In general, though, the asking price is a balance obtained by considering a neighborhood and the sale prices of comparable houses within the context of market conditions.
      Demand in some areas of the country is so strong that agents put up a number and someone pays it because the buyer fears that the asking price will be higher next week. Out-of-town investors often help to further inflate prices. Some current markets have shades of the late 1980s, when property

     She adores the kitchen; he hates the back yard. Or he loves the proximity to work but she thinks they need an extra bedroom. In today's real estate environment, with many regions of the country in hot sellers' markets, agreeing on a house can potentially be a relationship test for some couples.
      Compromising, keeping a level head, and being objective are key for house-hunting couples. And the experts say the house hunters should be out in hordes this year.
      David Lereah, the National Association of Realtor's chief economist, said the housing market could defy expectations this year. "Currently, we are projecting that home sales will decline slightly, but they remain at exceptionally high levels," Lereah said. "With a strong underlying demand for housing from a growing population in a recovering economy, we could be flirting with another record this year."
      With the spring season kicking into high gear, sellers have the advantage in many markets.
      If you and your spouse find yourself searching for a house in a tight sellers' market, then agreeing on a house will likely be even tougher than under normal conditions. Some things to keep in mind to help you evaluate each house you and your spouse are considering: