Don’t Let Unrealistic Pricing Derail Your Move
In today’s housing market, getting your pricing strategy right is absolutely essential. Many sellers feel tempted to “test the waters” with a high asking price, hoping to cash in big. But in reality, that approach can quickly backfire — and it could cost you both time and your next opportunity.
The danger isn’t just about missing offers — it’s about missing your move altogether.
The Real Cost of Overpricing Your Home
It’s common for homeowners to remember what their neighbor’s property sold for during the market’s peak and expect the same results. But here’s the truth — that was a different market.
Today’s landscape has shifted. With more homes available for sale, buyers have far more choices than before. They no longer need to engage in bidding wars or offer far above asking just to compete. Now, many buyers come in at, or even below, the list price — and if your number is too high, they’ll simply move on.
As Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:
“Buyers will have more leverage in many, but not all, markets. Sellers will need to adjust price expectations to reflect the transitioning market.”
You Still Have a Big Advantage
Here’s the silver lining: even with today’s market adjustments, most sellers are sitting on impressive equity.
According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), home values have climbed a remarkable 54% over the past five years. So even if you list slightly below your ideal price, chances are you’ll still walk away with significant gains.
Unfortunately, many homeowners struggle to see it that way. They remain fixated on what their neighbor earned months or years ago — and that mindset can be costly.
When Overpricing Stalls Your Whole Move
Here’s how the domino effect usually plays out:
- The seller lists their home too high.
- Buyers lose interest and skip the showing.
- Weeks pass with no offers.
- The seller faces tough choices — reduce the price, hold out, or pull the listing altogether.
By the time a price cut is made, it’s often too late. Buyers may view the price drop as a red flag — wondering what’s wrong with the property.
Recent research from John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) found that 54% of agents are seeing more homes being taken off the market than usual.
And why is that happening? The survey revealed:
“Sellers holding onto high price expectations is the leading reason they are delisting their homes.”
Backing this up, BrightMLS data shows:
“. . . sellers are delisting after having their home on the market and finding they are not getting the price they hoped for.”
Overpricing doesn’t just scare off buyers — it can completely derail your plans. After all, if no one’s viewing your home, how can you possibly sell it?
The Key to Making Your Move Happen
If you’re selling your home because of a new job, a growing family, or the need to be closer to loved ones, you can’t afford to get stuck waiting. The key is to work with an experienced local real estate agent who understands today’s market realities.
Successful sellers right now are those who trust their agents’ expertise and set realistic, data-driven prices from the start. When a home is properly priced and presented well, it still attracts strong attention — often receiving multiple offers.
The right pricing strategy can make all the difference between sitting on the sidelines and making your move happen smoothly.
Bottom Line
Pricing your home right isn’t just about making a sale — it’s about moving forward with your life.
Let’s talk about what homes are really selling for in your area and build a pricing plan that helps you achieve your goals without delay.
