The number of homes for sale is rising, which means buyers now have more options. They’re being pickier, and if your home is priced higher than the competition, chances are they’ll scroll right past it and move on to the next listing.

That’s why pricing right from the start is your best move—and a great agent can help make sure you get it right.

Overpricing Comes at a Cost

Many sellers are learning the hard way that overpricing can backfire. It often happens when homeowners base their price on what the market looked like a year ago—or on a neighbor’s sale that happened under very different conditions.

When those homes don’t sell, sellers usually face three tough choices:

1. Drop the price – While a price cut can get new eyes on the property, it may also raise red flags for buyers. They might assume something’s wrong with the house.

2. Take it off the market – Some sellers pause their plans entirely. But that also delays their next chapter, whether that’s upsizing, downsizing, or relocating.

3. Rent it out – Turning the property into a rental may sound like a simple fallback, but managing tenants, leases, and maintenance isn’t always easy—or profitable.

None of these outcomes are part of the original plan, and all of them can be avoided with the right pricing strategy from the beginning.

Where You Live Makes a Difference

While price cuts are happening nationwide, the likelihood depends on where you live.

📊 According to Realtor.com:

• In the South and West, about 23% of listings saw price reductions in June.

• In the Northeast, only 13% of listings had cuts.

This reflects how inventory levels differ across regions. And it shows why pricing isn’t one-size-fits-all. What’s true nationally may not match what’s happening in your zip code.

How a Great Agent Helps You Nail the Price

A skilled agent doesn’t just throw out a number—they create a strategy. As Zillow explains:

“Well-priced homes are more likely to sell quickly, but pricing your home to sell quickly and for maximum dollar requires strategy and knowledge of your local market.”

Here’s how an agent helps:

• They analyze your local market trends.

• They compare your home against recent sales in the area.

• They factor in buyer behavior and affordability in your neighborhood.

Sometimes that means pricing right at market value. Other times, pricing slightly lower can actually spark more interest, multiple offers, and ultimately a higher final sales price.

Bottom Line

Overpricing your home can lead to tough choices you don’t want to make. But with the right price—and the right guidance—you can sell quickly and confidently.

💡 The smartest move you can make? Work with a trusted local agent. Their market expertise ensures your pricing strategy works for today’s conditions and helps you move on to what’s next.