A couple of years ago, homes in places like Maui and all over the U.S. were selling fast, often with multiple offers above asking price. It felt like you could name your price and still have buyers lining up.
But things have shifted. Today’s real estate market is more balanced. Inventory has grown, and buyers have become more selective. Homes are sitting longer, and more sellers are cutting their prices.
So, how do you sell your house quickly and for top dollar in today’s market? It starts with one thing: pricing your home right from day one.
Maui Sellers: Why Pricing Your Home Correctly Matters
A recent Realtor.com survey found that 81% of sellers believe they’ll get their full asking price or more. But actual market data tells a different story.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 44% of recently sold homes went for less than asking. In fact, one in three sellers had to lower their price before the home sold.
This shows there’s a real disconnect between what sellers expect and what buyers are willing to pay.
The graph below, using Redfin data, shows how asking prices (blue line) have been outpacing actual sales prices (green line) more and more over time:
This growing gap makes one thing clear: overpricing your home in Maui—or anywhere—can hurt your chances of a successful sale.
What Happens When You Overprice Your Home?
It’s tempting to list high to “leave room for negotiation,” but that can actually backfire.
Here’s what happens when you overprice:
- You get fewer showings
- Buyers lose interest quickly
- Your home stays on the market longer
- Eventually, you’ll need a price cut to get traction
Buyers are savvy. When they see a home sitting too long, they wonder what’s wrong. That hesitation can cost you time and money. As Realtor.com explains:
“By getting the right price early on, you can increase the odds buyers will be interested in the home. In turn, this decreases the chances the home will sit on the market for a lengthier timeline, also reducing the odds you’ll need to lower the listing price.”
How To Price Your Home To Sell (Without Leaving Money on the Table)
Working with a local expert—like a Maui real estate agent who knows the current trends—is essential. Your agent will:
- Review recent sales in your area
- Analyze inventory and buyer demand
- Recommend a smart listing price based on market data
And remember, home prices have climbed over 57% in the past five years. Even if you list a bit below your ideal number, your profit potential is likely still strong.
Benefits of Pricing Your Home Right From the Start:
- More buyer interest and showings
- Less time on the market
- Lower chances of a price reduction
- Better positioning for strong offers
As Mike Simonsen of Altos Research puts it:
“. . . the best properties, well priced are selling quickly in most of the country.”
Final Thoughts
The market has changed—but your opportunity to sell hasn’t. You just need the right pricing plan from the start.
If you're thinking about selling your home in Maui, let’s connect. I’ll help you understand local pricing trends and find that sweet spot that gets buyers in the door fast.
Let’s talk about how to price your Maui home to sell—quickly and for top dollar.
