I’ve shared with my clients over the years that there are three ways to price a home. One, the highest price possible. Two, at market value. Three, just below market value. Every agent has their own pricing strategies. These have worked for me, and I’ve found pricing at a sweet spot below market value can bear a final price higher than both market value or the highest price possible. Once we’ve reviewed the recent sales of the neighborhood, we decide which strategy to use based on the home specifics, most importantly the condition and location. Its important to understand the state of the market and know pricing your home in the “old” real estate market is not the same now in the “new” real estate market. It’s also important to understand how buyers shop in the “new” market. Buyers are smart! Buyers have been researching homes, neighborhoods, and determining the value of your home before they’ve hired an agent to represent them.
I’ve found that many homeowners cannot grasp the idea that pricing their home competitively(slightly below market value) will create more interest and yield a higher sold price. If a homeowner has not sold/purchased a home in many years, their expectation is to receive an offer under their listed price, then to further negotiate. Their idea is that they’ll have to negotiate lower than their listed price to begin with, finally settling on a price below the “highest price possible”. With the examples I’ve copied below, you’ll see that the majority of homes that sold below the listed price, were also on the market for a longer period of time. Time is money. Time is an extra mortgage payment, utility costs, and may also deter a buyer from choosing your home over a hot new listing priced competitvely. Your real estate broker will know when the home is an exception to this situation. When a listing enters the market at a competitive price(with all things considered-price, location, and condition), you open the door for multiple offers, escalating price, and attractive terms for the seller.
If you’re thinking about selling and need some guidance, contact your broker or give me a call. I’d love to review the selling process with you and help you determine what you can list and sell your home for in today’s real estate market. -Julia
