How Sellers Price Their Homes
How Much Should I Offer?
We're often asked by our clients, "How much under the listing price
should we offer?" This is an excellent question. The answer is
difficult.
The main reason we emphasize the education phase of looking at homes
is because that is the best way for you to know value. When you review
and study 40-60 (or more!) listings, then drive by 10-20 and look at
5-10, you will recognize the "Hot Listings." You'll also recognize the
"dogs."
Sellers price their homes differently for 4 basic reasons:
- Ridiculously Overpriced!
These sellers have listened to a real estate agent over-inflate the
value of their home in an effort to obtain a listing. There is a
natural tendency on the part of sellers to list with the real estate
agent who gives them the highest promise. There is a tendency by some
real estate agents to give the seller a high "value" in an effort to
obtain the listing.
These homes can be 10-20% overpriced. These sellers may need a "dose
of reality" for a few months before they begin to realize that their
home is way overpriced as compared to others in the area.
The longer an overpriced home is for sale, the more likely we can get
the seller to face reality and sell at a fair price.
- A Little Overpriced!
These sellers fall into 2 categories:
• Those that feel their home is worth every penny of their asking
price
• Those that want to leave a little "negotiating" room.
These homes can be 4-10% overpriced. Perhaps 75% of all homes for sale
are priced in this range.
- Priced At Fair Market Value
These sellers have carefully and realistically studied other homes for
sale. They have priced their homes very competitively. These homes
usually sell within 4 weeks at or very near the listed price.
- Priced Below Fair Market Value
These homes are priced below value. Perhaps the seller wants a fast
sale. Perhaps the real estate agent recommended too low of a price.
These homes usually sell within 7-10 days, at or above the listed
price. There are usually competing offers.
Bank Protection
Even by carefully studying homes for sale, it's difficult to
establish Fair Market Value. If you're obtaining a new home loan, you'll
be protected by the Professional Bank Appraisal. Home lenders want to
make sure that you don't over-pay for a home. If the home does not meet
value in the eyes of the bank appraiser, you'll be informed. At that
time, we can re-negotiate the sale price or void the agreement and
refund your earnest money deposit.
Our job is to ensure that you have the tools and information you need
to make an informed decision. We'll help you prepare the offer. Then
we'll present it to the seller on your behalf and try our best to get it
accepted at your price and terms!
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