“Don’t Just List It—Sell It: What Works in a Buyer’s Market”
by Mariann Pero

🏡 Selling in a Buyer's Market? Here’s How to Stand Out (and Get Sold!)
Let’s be real: selling a home in a buyer’s market can feel like trying to get noticed at a karaoke night where everyone sings Adele. The competition is fierce, buyers are picky, and if your home isn’t checking boxes, it might just sit there… collecting dust instead of offers.
But don’t panic—there’s good news. With the right strategy (and a little elbow grease), you can absolutely sell your home and come out ahead.
Here’s what savvy sellers are doing right now to win buyers over and get that SOLD sign up faster:
💸 1. Price It Right—The First Time
Let’s cut to the chase: in a buyer’s market, pricing is everything.
Buyers are comparing your home to 10 others down the street—and if yours is overpriced? It’s instantly off their list.
That doesn't mean underpricing it and giving it away... it means pricing it smartly based on real-time market data, recent sales, and local trends.
💬 “But my neighbor’s sold for $50K more last year!”
Totally get it—but today’s market is different. You want to be the best deal in your price range, not the overpriced outlier still waiting for showings three weeks in.
🎁 2. Offer Buyer Incentives—Because Motivation Matters
Want buyers to choose your home over the one down the block? Give them a little nudge.
We’re seeing sellers offer things like:
✅ Buyer closing costs covered
✅ Rate buy-downs
✅ Home warranties
✅ Credit for repairs or upgrades
These incentives can help a buyer stretch their budget or feel more comfortable making an offer—and in this market, that extra edge matters.
🧠 Smart sellers are putting money where it makes the most impact—for buyers, that’s monthly payments and upfront costs.
🧹 3. Declutter Like You Mean It
You’re moving anyway, so start packing. Every room should feel clean, open, and neutral enough that a buyer can imagine their stuff (not yours) in the space.
Less is more:
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Clear off countertops and shelves
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Remove excess furniture
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Organize closets (buyers peek—trust me)
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Hide personal items and busy decor
🎯 Think model home vibes—not lived-in chaos.
🌬️ 4. Don’t Let Odors Kill the Deal
This one’s awkward but important: your house should smell amazing—or at the very least, not smell weird.
Pet smells, smoke, heavy cooking odors, or mustiness can send buyers running before they even see the kitchen. And no, a single candle won’t fix it.
Tips:
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Deep clean carpets and upholstery
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Open windows before showings
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Use light, clean scents (vanilla, citrus, fresh linen)
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Skip anything overpowering—less is more
👃 Buyers shop with their noses. Make sure your home smells like “fresh start,” not “what is that?”
🌳 5. Curb Appeal = Clicks + Contracts
Buyers judge your home before they even step inside. That first impression? It’s everything.
Simple, inexpensive upgrades can go a long way:
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Mow and edge the lawn
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Power wash siding and walkways
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Plant fresh flowers or add potted plants
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Paint the front door
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Replace burnt-out lightbulbs
🚪 If the outside says “well cared for,” buyers feel more confident walking in.
💬 Final Thoughts: You’re Not Just Selling a House—You’re Selling a Feeling
In a buyer’s market, it’s not enough to simply list your home. You need to market it, prepare it, and position it to stand out. That means pricing it right, offering value, making it sparkle, and pulling out all the stops.
But here's the good news: when you do these things, your home doesn’t just compete—it wins.
Thinking of selling soon and want a game plan tailored to your home and neighborhood? Let’s talk. I’ll help you strategize every step so you’re not just on the market... you’re moving on.
📲 Call or text me anytime—I’ve got you covered.
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