Mastering the Art of Pricing Your Home for Sale: Expert Guidance for Homeowners

A crucial question that many homeowners have when planning to sell their home is, "What should I list my house for?" Accurately pricing your home for sale plays a significant role in attracting potential buyers during the initial weeks your property is on the market. Overpricing may deter buyers, and subsequent price adjustments might give the impression that you're desperate to sell, potentially inviting lowball offers. To ensure a swift and stress-free home sale, it's essential to determine the optimal listing price.

3. Request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) A CMA is an estimate of your home's market value based on the prices of recently sold properties in your neighborhood with similar size, condition, and age. Real estate agents typically conduct a CMA since they have access to the most recent sales data in your area. They will analyze recent home sales in your community and identify listings most comparable to your home based on size, age, features, and condition. In addition to recently sold homes, your agent will also examine comparable homes currently listed for sale, paying particular attention to how long they've been on the market. Extended time on the market could indicate overpricing. Your agent will then provide you with a report summarizing sales information, listing and selling prices, and days on market for comparable homes recently sold in your area.
4. Understand the Importance of Days on Market Accurate pricing from the beginning is crucial to ensure your listing attracts attention during the initial weeks on the market. Overpricing may cause your home to sit on the market longer, as buyers may be discouraged by the high price. Moreover, your listing may not appear in search results for buyers with lower price limits. Instead of waiting for a buyer willing to negotiate or pay extra, you risk alienating potential buyers who may not take your listing seriously. Reducing the price after 60+ days on the market may raise concerns about possible issues with the property. Buyers often pay close attention to the number of days a listing has been on the market, and an extended period could deter potential offers.

5. Assess Local Market Conditions Considering the local market conditions is vital when determining the best price for your home. Understanding the current market, including the demand for your type of property, will help you make an informed decision when pricing your home for sale. Typically, as demand increases and supply decreases, home prices appreciate. While the market has become more balanced compared to 2021-2022, the Edmonton market is expected to maintain its strength throughout 2023.

6. Consult with an Experienced Real Estate Agent An experienced real estate agent can offer invaluable guidance when pricing your home for sale. From preparing a detailed CMA report to advising on current market conditions, a knowledgeable agent will have the necessary resources and expertise to help you establish a competitive listing price.