You know, the toughest thing sellers face these days isn’t staging or finding the right buyer. It’s nailing that asking price. In fact, 58% of sellers struggle with it. And here’s the deal: if you price it too high, buyers won’t bite, and your listing will just sit there, collecting dust.

The Danger of Overpricing: It’s Not Worth the Gamble

We’ve seen a jump in price reductions over the last year, and it’s clear: starting too high only means more headaches down the road. Data shows homes sell faster (sometimes 50% faster) after a price drop, but wouldn’t it be better to get it right the first time?

Overpricing kills momentum, and the longer your listing sits, the more buyers suspect something is wrong with the property.

Current Market Reality: Listings Are Piling Up

New listings might be steady, but active ones? They’re stacking up. In a market where buyers have more choices, competitive pricing isn’t just smart—it’s necessary. No one’s going to go for a home that doesn’t make sense on the dollar when a better value is listed nearby.

The rule is simple: List at market value, get more eyes on your property, and sell quicker.

The Key to Strategy: Seller’s Motivation

Why are you selling? That’s the question that unlocks the pricing strategy.

Whether it’s relocating for work, moving closer to family, or downsizing, understanding the ‘why’ helps shape the ‘how’ when it comes to listing. If speed is your priority, your pricing strategy needs to reflect that urgency from Day One. Have those real conversations upfront—it’ll save time, stress, and get you to the closing table faster.

Looking to 2025: A More Balanced Market

Next year, we’re looking at more “normal” levels of price appreciation—think 3–4%. Not as thrilling as the past few years, but it’s a sign of a healthier, more balanced market where strategic pricing is even more critical.

Final Note: Seller Closings and Convenience

Historically, many sellers would attend closings, and I believe this can be beneficial. Being present allows for immediate clarification of any questions and facilitates direct communication.

However, I’ve noticed a growing trend of sellers opting to sign paperwork beforehand and not attending the closing…a convenient option! The great news is that these documents can typically be signed at your convenience, whether that’s in the comfort of your own home or at the office. You can schedule this at a time that works best for you.