If you’re still counting on multiple offers and bidding wars, it’s time to reset your expectations. The days of a frenzied seller’s market are behind us and the numbers prove it.
The Market Reset
According to the latest data from Cotality, about 50% of homes are now selling for less than their asking price. That may sound alarming, but it’s actually a sign that the housing market is returning to normal.
Here’s the bigger picture, based on Zillow data:
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2018–2019: Roughly 50–55% of homes sold under asking - that was typical.
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2021–2022: Only 25% sold under asking, thanks to historically low rates and overwhelming demand.
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2025: We’re back to about 50% selling below asking, which is much closer to long-term norms.
The bottom line? The market is healthier and more sustainable than it was during the peak frenzy.
Why This Matters for Sellers
In today’s environment, your pricing strategy is everything. A few years ago, sellers could list high and still attract buyers. Not anymore. With tighter budgets and more inventory, buyers have choices and they’re more cautious.
Your first two weeks on the market are critical. This is when the most serious buyers are watching, and if your price misses the mark, your listing can stall. Once it sits too long, it risks going stale, and recovering your asking price becomes much harder.
How to Position Your Home for Success
Yes, half of homes are selling below asking but that also means the other half are selling at or above. The difference comes down to strategy. Here’s the formula that works in today’s market:
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Prep your home. Knock out essential repairs, refresh your curb appeal, and stage where possible.
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Price it right from the start. Don’t just compare list prices; work with your agent to review actual sale prices and set a competitive, realistic number.
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Stay flexible. Be ready to negotiate. Sometimes that means adjusting closing costs or repairs rather than price. Serious buyers expect give-and-take.
The Takeaway
The market isn’t bad - it’s just balanced. Sellers who adapt are still achieving strong results, while those holding onto outdated expectations risk price cuts and longer days on market.
If you want your home to be one of the success stories, you need a strategy built for today, not yesterday. That’s where the right local agent makes all the difference.
Want to know what your home could sell for in today’s market? Try our free home valuation tool and let’s talk strategy.
KCM Crew. "Why 50% of Homes Are Selling for Under Asking and How To Avoid It." Keeping Current Matters, 8 September 2025, https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2025/09/08/why-50-of-homes-are-selling-for-under-asking-and-how-to-avoid-it/. Accessed 8 September 2025.
