Homesellers: How to Get the Price You Want (and Need)


When you're ready to sell your home, setting the right asking price is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Why? Because price is often the very first thing buyers notice about your home. If it doesn’t seem right, many buyers won’t even bother to take a closer look.


Your asking price is like your home’s “first impression,” and just like in life, first impressions matter! If you want to sell your home for the most money possible, it’s important to get the price just right.


But let’s be honest—pricing your home can be tricky. Price it too high, and you might scare away buyers. Price it too low, and you could leave money on the table. That’s why a smart pricing strategy is key.


This guide is here to help. We’ll break down everything you need to know about pricing your home effectively so that it sells for the price you want (and need).


Pricing Strategy Starts with Good Information


Before setting your price, it’s important to do some homework. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

  1. Looking at neighborhood sales is just a starting point.
    Checking what homes near you have recently sold for can help, but it’s not enough on its own. Pricing your home correctly requires a broader understanding of the market.

  2. Think like a buyer.
    Remember how you searched for your current home? Chances are, you didn’t limit your search to just one neighborhood. Buyers today compare homes across different areas, from new developments to older homes, and from suburban neighborhoods to rural properties. They’re looking at all their options, so your home needs to stand out in its price range.

  3. You’re competing with more than just your neighbours.
    Buyers will compare your home to others with similar features—like the number of bedrooms or total living space—even if they’re in a completely different area. This is why it’s important to price your home competitively within the broader market.


How Your Asking Price Impacts Your Sale


There are four common pricing strategies sellers use, and each comes with its own risks and rewards:


1. Clearly Overpriced

Some sellers aim high, pricing their homes 10–20% over market value. While this might seem like a good way to maximize your profit, it often backfires. Buyers (and their agents) aren’t easily fooled.

What happens?

  • Your home sits on the market for months.
  • It may get labeled as “troubled” or “overpriced,” making it harder to sell later.
  • You’re stuck keeping your home “show-ready” with no offers coming in
  • You will know your home is overpriced it you get very few or no showings in the first two weeks
  • A well priced home will get 12 to 15 showings within the first 21 days (or less) 


2. Somewhat Overpriced

About 75% of homes on the market fall into this category—priced 5–10% above market value. These homes often sit on the market longer than expected, frustrating sellers.

Why does this happen?

  • Sometimes sellers believe their home is worth more than the market suggests (understandable—your home is special to you!).
  • Other times, sellers leave extra room for negotiation, but this can still turn buyers away.
  • You will know your home is somewhat overpriced if you get 15 showings or more but those showings do not produce at least one offer 


3. Priced Correctly at Market Value

Smart sellers understand that real estate operates on supply and demand. These homes are priced realistically based on a thorough market analysis, making them attractive to buyers.

What’s the result?

  • These homes sell within a reasonable timeframe.
  • They typically sell close to the asking price.
  • If your home is priced correctly you will get at least one offer with every 12 to 15 showings


4. Priced Below Market Value

Sometimes sellers are motivated to sell quickly and price their homes just below market value. This can create buzz, leading to multiple offers and a quick sale, often at or above the asking price.

But be cautious: If an agent suggests this strategy, make sure it aligns with your goals and best interests.


The Bottom Line

Pricing your home right is essential to getting the best possible outcome. With the tips in this guide, you’ll be equipped to set a price that attracts buyers, creates excitement, and helps you achieve the financial result you’re aiming for.


If you’re ready to dive deeper into your home’s pricing strategy, reach out for personalized advice—we’re here to help!


Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale.