When it comes to selling a home, one of the most common mistakes sellers make is overpricing. On the surface, it feels strategic—leave a little “negotiation room” so you don’t undersell. But in reality, overpricing can hurt your chances of getting top dollar.
Here’s what really happens when a home hits the market at the wrong price:
Day 1–30: Buyers Assume Something’s Off
Today’s buyers are savvy. If your home is priced too high, many won’t even click on the listing. Those who do may assume you’re unrealistic and move on to other options.
Day 31–60: Suspicion Grows
If your home is still sitting on the market after a month or two, buyers start to wonder, “Why hasn’t it sold yet?” Even if the home is beautiful, the longer it lingers, the more red flags it raises.
Day 61–90: You Become “That House”
Agents start comparing your home to others that are priced more competitively: “At least it’s not as overpriced as that house on Oak Street.” Your home becomes the cautionary tale, not the success story.
Day 91+: Radioactive Territory
Once your home has been on the market for 3+ months, buyers begin to wonder what’s wrong with it—even if nothing is. Even price drops can’t shake the stigma. By now, your negotiating position is weak, and buyers may lowball, thinking you’re desperate.
Meanwhile, the Correctly Priced Home…
When a home is priced right from the beginning, the results are completely different:
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Multiple offers within the first week.
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Strong competition that can drive the price above asking.
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A quick, smooth transaction that saves time, stress, and carrying costs.
The Market Doesn’t Negotiate with Ego
Every day on the market is documented, and every price drop is public. Buyers use that information against you. Ironically, sellers who “leave room” often end up netting less than if they’d priced correctly from the start.
The truth is simple:
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Price it right, and let the market push your home upward.
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Price it wrong, and watch isolation drag your home downward.
The market doesn’t negotiate with ego—it just waits you out.
Final Thoughts
Selling your home is both an emotional and financial decision, but pricing strategically (not optimistically) is key. By starting with the right number, you attract serious buyers, create excitement, and often sell for more than you imagined.
If you’re thinking about selling and want a pricing strategy tailored to today’s market, let’s talk. The right price isn’t about leaving room—it’s about leaving a lasting impression.