If your selling plan still assumes you’ll get multiple offers well above asking, it’s time for a reality check. The frenzied seller’s market of the past few years is gone—and the numbers prove it.
From Frenzy to a More “Normal” Market
According to Cotality, about 50% of homes today are selling below their asking price. That might feel discouraging at first, but it’s actually a return to normal.
Here’s the trend using Zillow data:
-
2018–2019: Roughly 50–55% of homes sold under asking—that was standard.
-
2021–2022: Only 25% sold under asking, fueled by record-low mortgage rates and overheated demand.
-
2025: We’re back to around 50% of homes selling under asking, which aligns with historical norms.
For sellers in Tacoma, Puyallup, Auburn, Sumner, SeaTac, Des Moines, Burien, Normandy Park, Lake Tapps, and Bonney Lake, this means the market is stabilizing—not crashing.
Why Pricing Strategy Is Critical Now
During the peak frenzy, sellers could overprice and still get swarmed with offers. That’s no longer the case. Today, buyers are more cautious, have stricter budgets, and more homes to choose from.
The first two weeks on the market are your golden window. Price your home too high at the start, and buyers will move on. Once your listing goes stale, it becomes much harder to sell at your desired price.
The Winning Formula for Sellers
If you want to avoid price cuts and slow sales, here are three key steps:
-
Prep your home. Knock out repairs and cosmetic updates so your house makes a strong first impression.
-
Price it right from day one. Don’t rely on list prices nearby—work with your agent to focus on actual sold data.
-
Stay flexible. Be open to negotiating. Concessions on closing costs, repairs, or timelines may seal the deal without lowering your price.
Remember, while half of homes are selling under asking, the other half are still selling at or above—and the difference comes down to strategy.
The Bottom Line
Today’s market isn’t about chasing bidding wars—it’s about smart pricing, preparation, and partnering with a strong local agent who knows the market dynamics in Tacoma, Puyallup, Auburn, Sumner, SeaTac, Des Moines, Burien, Normandy Park, Lake Tapps, and Bonney Lake.
If you’re planning to sell and want to make sure your home stands out, visit your local real estate resource to start planning the right strategy for today’s market.
