Usually, it’s better to price your property market-related from the start, rather than starting very high and hoping to negotiate down.
Here’s why:
The first 2–4 weeks are the most important. Serious buyers and agents watch new listings closely.
If the price is too high, buyers may skip your property entirely and never come back.
Overpriced homes often sit on the market longer, which can make buyers think something is wrong.
Properties that stay unsold too long often end up selling for less than they would have if priced correctly initially.
That said, there’s a balanced strategy:
When slightly above market can work
You can sometimes list:
about 3–5% above realistic market value
if the property is in excellent condition,
in a high-demand area,
or if inventory is low.
This leaves small room for negotiation without scaring buyers away.
When pricing high usually backfires
Starting:
10–20% above comparable sales,
“just to test the market,”
often reduces viewings and weakens your negotiating position later.
Best approach
Use:
recent comparable sales in your area,
current competition,
market conditions (buyer’s market vs seller’s market),
and how quickly you want to sell.
In the current South African market, correctly priced homes generally attract stronger interest and better offers than heavily inflated listings.
A practical rule:
Need a quick sale: price at or just below market.
Not in a rush: slightly above market is acceptable.
Far above market: usually costs time and money.
Contact your experts in real estate for assitance
