Why Your Asking Price Can Make or Break Your Home Sale

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

A few years ago, homes were flying off the market with multiple offers well over asking price. Sellers could set a high number and still walk away with more than they expected.

But today? The market’s different. Buyers are more cautious. Homes are sitting longer. And price cuts are becoming more common.

If you’re thinking about selling, there’s still a great opportunity—but it all hinges on how you price your home.

There’s a Disconnect Between Sellers and Buyers Right Now

According to a recent Realtor.com survey, 81% of sellers expect to get their asking price or more. But in reality, that’s not what the numbers are showing.

The National Association of Realtors reports that 44% of homes sold for less than asking. And about 1 in 3 sellers had to lower their price at least once before getting it sold.

The gap between list price and sale price is growing. And Redfin’s data makes that even more clear: asking prices are rising, but actual sale prices aren’t keeping pace.

That tells us something important—buyers are willing to walk away when a home feels overpriced.

What Happens When You Overprice?

Some sellers price high thinking they’ll “leave room to negotiate.” But in today’s market, that strategy can backfire fast.

Here’s why:

• Overpriced homes often sit on the market longer.

• Buyers start wondering what’s wrong with the house.

• Interest drops off, showings slow down, and the home goes stale.

• Eventually, the price gets cut to try and spark new interest.

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.”

Pricing It Right Still Works

The good news? When you price your home correctly from the start, buyers notice—and you create the conditions for a stronger offer, faster sale, and smoother process.

An experienced local agent (like me) will help you set that sweet spot by analyzing current data: recent comps, buyer activity, and what’s actually selling in your specific neighborhood.

And here’s the encouraging part—home prices are still up over 57% compared to five years ago. That means even if you don’t list quite as high as you’d hoped, you’re likely still walking away with a strong return.

As Mike Simonsen from Altos Research says:

“. . . the best properties, well priced are selling quickly in most of the country.”

Bottom Line

The market may have shifted, but your opportunity to sell hasn’t. It just takes the right strategy—and it starts with the right price.

Let’s talk about what homes are really selling for in your neighborhood and build a pricing plan that helps you get top dollar without leaving your home sitting.

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