A few years ago, homes in areas like Tacoma, Puyallup, and Auburn were flying off the market, often with multiple offers well above asking. It felt like sellers could set nearly any price and still attract buyers.
But today’s housing market has shifted. With more listings available, buyers are becoming more selective. As a result, homes are staying on the market longer—and many sellers are having to reduce their asking prices to stay competitive.
So, how do you make sure your home stands out and sells quickly? It all starts with one thing: pricing it right from day one.
Sellers’ Expectations Don’t Always Match Buyer Reality
According to a recent survey by Realtor.com, 81% of sellers still believe their homes will sell at or above asking price. But national data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) paints a different picture: over 44% of homes recently sold for less than their original list price, and about one in three sellers had to cut their price before getting an offer.
This gap between seller expectations and what buyers are willing to pay is growing. Redfin data shows asking prices continue to trend higher than actual sales prices—and the gap is widening. That tells us buyers in places like Sumner, SeaTac, and Burien are becoming more price-conscious and cautious.
The Problem with Overpricing
You might think listing high gives you more wiggle room to negotiate. But overpricing often backfires. When buyers see a home sitting for weeks with no action, they assume something is wrong—and their interest fades.
As Realtor.com puts it:
“By getting the right price early on, you can increase the odds buyers will be interested. This decreases the chances your home will sit on the market or need a price cut later.”
That’s especially true in smaller markets like Normandy Park, Lake Tapps, or Bonney Lake, where word spreads fast and buyers know what to expect in their budget.
Price Strategically with Local Expertise
To avoid costly missteps, work with a real estate agent who knows the dynamics of your specific neighborhood. An experienced agent will study local trends, recent comparable sales, and buyer demand to help you find the sweet spot that draws serious offers.
And here’s a bonus: even with today’s shifting conditions, home values have increased by more than 57% over the past five years. So, even if you price your home slightly under your dream number, you’re likely still in a strong position to earn a solid return.
Bottom Line
In today’s market, pricing your home correctly from the beginning is your best strategy for a smooth, successful sale. Whether you're in Des Moines, Puyallup, or anywhere in the South Sound, I can help you navigate local trends and position your home to attract serious buyers.
Let’s find your pricing sweet spot. Reach out through my real estate services page to get started today.
