What’s Most Important to Home Sellers Today
1. Price Smart from the Start
With sellers now outnumbering buyers for the first time in over a decade, homes are sitting longer on the market. Buyers have more choices, and price reductions are becoming common. I currently have a listing that has been on the market 19 days with one price reduction, which prior to this month was unheard of. Based on comparables we felt it was priced right, suddenly the market has changed.
Takeaway: If your list price feels lofty, it probably is. Price it right from day one and you’ll be signing a contract sooner, not chasing price drops later.
2. Flexibility Wins Deals
Many sellers are choosing to take their homes off the market rather than keep lowering the price. While this can be a valid option, the more successful approach is often flexibility—whether that’s on price, terms, or incentives. Example: on another listing we agreed to 3% in closing costs and it got us the deal.
Takeaway: Be open to concessions—such as a home warranty or closing cost assistance—to keep buyers engaged.
3. Inventory Is Climbing— Stand Out or Get Overlooked
Inventory levels are rising, meaning your home has more competition.
Takeaway: Invest in curb appeal, professional staging, and strong digital marketing to make your listing unforgettable from the first click.
4. Don’t Get Stuck in the “Lock-In” Mindset
Yes, low mortgage rates are nice, but if your home no longer fits your life, that rate isn’t doing you any favors. More and more sellers are making the move despite leaving a great rate behind. Here is a recent update on what is happening with interest rates.
Bottom line: If you need a change, now’s the time to make it happen.
5. Preserve Transparency in Your Listing
Not all listings are given maximum public exposure—as a member of The Gatti Team and Coldwell Banker Realty our properties are automatically promoted by 100’s or agents. Along with our Social Media network, individual property websites, targeted advertising and property websites, we ensure maximum exposure.
Takeaway: Partner with an agent who ensures your property gets full, open-market visibility.
So, What Should Sellers Do Right Now?
| Focus Area | Seller’s Action Plan |
|---|---|
| Pricing | Set a competitive, realistic price upfront |
| Flexibility | Be ready to negotiate smart—think incentives |
| Staging & Marketing | Highlight your home digitally and in person |
| Strategic Timing | If you’re not locked into a low-rate mortgage, act |
| Agent Selection | Choose transparency and exposure, always |
Tough Love for Sellers
The bidding war glory days are behind us. Success now takes strategy, flexibility, and a little boldness. Don’t sit around waiting for the market to shift in your favor—you make the sale happen.
Your Next Chapter Starts Here,
