The Seller’s Market Reset: Why Strategy Matters Now

The past few years have been red hot in real estate. Sellers could list their homes and expect multiple offers, often closing above asking price. But today, the landscape has shifted. Recent data shows that nearly half of all homes are now selling below list price.

That doesn’t mean the market is negative. Instead, it signals a return to balance—a healthier, more sustainable housing market.

The Path Back to Normal

• 2018–2019: About 50–55% of homes sold below asking → a normal, balanced market.

• 2021–2022: Only ~25% sold below asking → fueled by record-low interest rates and overwhelming demand.

• 2025: About 50% are selling below asking → back to pre-pandemic averages.

What we’re seeing today isn’t a collapse—it’s a reset toward normalcy.

What Sellers Need to Know

The days of overpricing and still receiving multiple offers are gone. Buyers have more options and tighter budgets. That means the right pricing strategy at the start is more important than ever.

The first two weeks after listing are critical. Serious buyers notice new listings right away, and if pricing misses the mark, the property risks sitting on the market, losing momentum.

3 Strategies for a Successful Sale

1. Prepare Your Home Thoroughly – Complete essential repairs and touch-ups to catch buyers’ attention.

2. Price Strategically from the Start – Base your listing on actual closed sales, not just competing listings.

3. Negotiate Flexibly – Go beyond price: consider terms like repairs, closing costs, and timelines to reach a win-win.

   
   

Final Thoughts

As the market resets, adjusting seller expectations is key. But with preparation and a solid strategy, sellers can still achieve list price—or even above. Now more than ever, working with an experienced local agent makes all the difference.

If you’re thinking of selling, let’s build a data-driven pricing strategy tailored for today’s market.

Chicago BDB | Hansang Chul📞 773-717-2227 | 📧 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com