IMO I don't think you should take a hit of 9,000. They know you weren't pleased with 4,000. I agree you should have taken the 4,000 hit but you can't cry over spilled milk. These people are old and experienced so be careful. You guys are secretly itching to sell and make sure you never let on you're anxious to sell - play it cool. Tell them you're insulted with the 9,000 dollar hit and won't take more than the 4,000 dollar deduction. They're being greedy IMO. If it falls through, could you rent it out, so you could move? Usually a counter offer should be less not more.