While the goal is to get the highest possible closing price in a reasonable amount of time listing a property above market value often turns away prospects and decreases the likelihood of a successful sale (see chart A).  An overly aggressive price prevents a property from taking advantage of a key driver in property marketing – timing.  It is well known that a property attracts the most excitement and interest when it’s first listed (see Chart B).  If a property is priced above market value, it does not appropriately benefit from the peak interest period.  This may ultimately lead to a sale below market value (see Chart C), or no sale at all.

The initial asking price is a critical aspect of your property marketing plan. Statistics show time and again that homes that are priced properly when first brought to market sell at a higher sales price, oftentimes with better terms and conditions, and in a shorter time frame. “Testing the marketplace” with an inflated over-market value asking price is rarely the best strategy.

Share this:
Mark Danforth Lomas

Recent Posts

Market Update October 2026

Why House Prices Should Be On Your Radar Lately, macro headlines have been giving local…

2 days ago

Open House Guide for October 3rd and October 4th

Your ultimate guide to this weeks Open Houses for October 3rd & 4th.. Click Read…

3 weeks ago

Lucas Museum of Narrative Arts

After a decades-long journey, millions of dollars in vision, and a staggering $1 billion investment…

1 month ago

Market Pulse and Statistics

As we push past the midway point of the year, the Southern Santa Barbara housing…

1 month ago

Viva la Fiesta! Santa Barbara’s 103rd Celebration Returns!

¡Viva la Fiesta! Santa Barbara’s 103rd Annual Celebration Returns August 5–9, 2026The spirit of Santa…

2 months ago

Market Update: A Snapshot of June 2026

The June 2026 real estate data for Southern Santa Barbara County offers a fascinating look…

2 months ago