Buyers Are Getting Picky—Make Sure Your Price Is On Point

Why Pricing Your Home Right the First Time Matters More Than Ever

Just a few years ago, sellers could name their price and still have buyers lining up. Homes sold in days, often with multiple offers and bidding wars.

But today’s market? It's a different story.

Inventory is up. Buyers are more selective. And homes that are priced too high are sitting longer—and often selling for less than asking. That’s why pricing your home right, from day one, has never been more important.

Buyers Are Paying Attention—and So Should You

A recent Realtor.com survey found that 81% of sellers expect to get their asking price or more. But the reality? Only 56% of homes are doing that. The rest are selling below asking—or needing price cuts to move.

Redfin’s data shows an even clearer gap. The average asking price continues to climb, while the actual sales prices are slipping behind. That disconnect tells buyers one thing: some homes just aren’t priced realistically.

Overpricing Doesn’t Give You Leverage—It Loses You Time

It might seem smart to list high, thinking you’ll “leave room to negotiate.” But in this market, overpricing is more likely to backfire.

Here’s why:

• Buyers notice how long a home has been sitting

• They assume something must be wrong

• Interest drops off quickly

• You wind up needing a price cut—often more than you originally wanted

Realtor.com says it best: “By getting the right price early on, you can increase the odds buyers will be interested. That decreases the chances the home will sit, and lowers the odds you’ll need to cut later.”

Work With an Agent Who Knows the Market

A local agent isn’t just there to stick a sign in your yard—they know what’s selling, what buyers are looking for, and what your home can realistically bring in today’s conditions. They’ll help you price smart from the start so you don’t miss your window.

And even if the number isn’t quite what you dreamed of, remember: home values are still up 57% over the last five years. So chances are, you’re walking away with solid equity either way.

Bottom Line

The market has shifted, but you can still make a strong sale. It just takes strategy. And it starts with the right price.

Curious what your home could sell for today—and how to price it right? Let’s talk.

Amber Johnson, Founder
Pillar Real Estate
805.835.3425
[email protected]
1345 Park St. Paso Robles, CA 93446
DRE# 01925434