Establishing a list price for your home does not inherently reflect its actual market value. In today’s dynamic real estate environment, the list price is often viewed as a “starting bid”. A strategic figure designed to attract attention and set the stage for what’s to come. It’s less about pinning down an exact worth and more about positioning your property effectively in the marketplace. Today’s buyers are savvy and well-informed. They often understand that the list price is just a baseline.
Unlike in the past, when the trend leaned toward haggling downward, the momentum in today’s competitive market typically drives prices upward from that initial figure. Years ago, the conventional wisdom for homeowners was to set an asking price above the property’s appraised or perceived value. This approach built-in a cushion, allowing sellers to come down during negotiations. It was a defensive strategy rooted in caution and a slower-paced market.
Contrast that with today’s pricing strategy, which flips the script entirely. The most effective approach now is listing your home at its market value—or even slightly below. This tactic isn’t about undervaluing your property; it’s about sparking interest and creating urgency. A well-priced home can ignite a flurry of activity, drawing in multiple buyers who see an opportunity and are willing to compete. The result? Offers roll in quickly—often within days—and the final sales price frequently soars well above the original asking price. Data backs this up. In hot markets, homes priced strategically low can see bidding wars that push the sale price 10-20% higher than the list, sometimes more, depending on demand and location.
As a full-time experienced Realtor, I make it my mission to stay ahead of the curve regarding property values and market trends. I don’t just track numbers—I analyze the nuances behind them, from neighborhood shifts to buyer behavior. My clients trust me with what is often their most valuable asset, and I don’t take that lightly. This responsibility drives me to deliver results, not just promises. With my deep expertise in the real estate market, I’m here to guide you through every step—crafting a pricing strategy tailored to your goals, navigating offers with precision, and ensuring your sale maximizes both speed and profit. We’ll turn the “starting bid” into a winning outcome.
My brother and his wife recently purchased a home. They paid about five percent over asking so not too too bad. But it did become clear during the process that the sellers had no intention of selling at list price. A bidding war was the plan all along