One of the most critical components in listing a property for sale is pricing it correctly. It is particularly important when the market begins to shift from a Seller’s market to a Buyer’s market.
Are we in a shifting market?
On Oahu, our inventory remains at about a one month supply for single-family homes and a month and a half supply for condos. That’s tight. Buyers are still vying for property. Pencils are still being sharpened. Demand and competition remain high. But, there are concerns. Concerns about the economy, the stock market, inflation, and those rising interest rates. As interest rates creep up, a correct list price is critical. The list price is like a magnet, attracting ready, willing, and able Buyers to the property.
The determination of market value is normally based on a set of assumptions, such as the location of the property, the size, and condition of the property, and the nature and condition of the market. Existing inventory, past sales, days on market, current interest rates, and the economy, are all key factors to consider when pricing a property. Ultimately, the market decides the price and the market’s opinion is truly the only opinion that counts. Listen.To.The.Market. Right now, there are a lot of unknowns and a lot of uncertainty. It’s still pretty robust, but the times may be a changin’. So, listen well and be quick to respond accordingly.
There is no “exact price” for real estate, but analyzing current market conditions and sales data can give Sellers a fair indication of value. In a shifting market, pricing at or below past comparable sales prices is wise. Get in front of the curve in order to generate interest! A well-priced property will sell faster and at the property’s highest and best price.
Often, Sellers make the mistake of pricing their property too high. Unfortunately, this often attracts the wrong buyers (even in a bullish market) who will compare their property with other properties in the same price range. Those Buyers will “bounce off” the overpriced home because it makes other homes appear more attractive. The right buyers won’t even see the property because it is priced too high.
Price Your Home Right
Conversely, there are many benefits to pricing a home correctly, especially in a changing market. The right price will attract agents and Buyers and will garner more exposure and a better overall market response. There are also emotional benefits to pricing a home properly. Selling a home can be an arduous and complex process. It can be taxing emotionally and it can be disruptive, so these less tangible factors should also be factored into the list price. Good pricing allows you, the Seller, to dictate terms and timing, which go a long way to a smooth and simpler process.
Focus on the goal of selling and moving forward. Don’t stay stuck on your price position. Do you want to stay or do you want to sell? If you want to sell, listen to the market and your Realtor. And, price your property correctly.
For more information on the process of pricing a property properly, please feel free to contact me. I can provide you with a free comprehensive market analysis and share more about the benefits of proper pricing.
This information is believed to be accurate. It has been provided by sources other than the Realtors Assoc. of Maui and should not be relied upon without independent verification. You should conduct your own investigation and consult with appropriate professionals to determine the accuracy of the information provided and to answer any questions concerning the property and structures located thereon. Featured properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting this brochure. Copyright, 1995-2015, REALTORS® Association of Maui, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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