I want sellers to focus on the number the market is likely to accept, not just the one they want.
If you are selling in San Marino Unified School District, CA, the number you start with matters, but the number buyers will actually support matters more. I would keep that front and center because recent offers landed at 95.6% of asking over the previous month.
The recent pricing picture is clear. The typical asking price was $3,490,000 and the typical sold price was $3,300,000 over the previous month in San Marino Unified School District, CA. Supply stood at 2 months, and a typical sale took 52 days. Sellers still have an advantage, but not unlimited pricing freedom. This is where many listings lose momentum. If you launch too high, buyers compare your home to recent closings, not to your reasons for the number. In a market where the average close still comes in below list, the strongest strategy is to invite confidence early. That often protects the final result better than a more aggressive opening number. Price from the close, not from the wish. Use current competition to fine-tune your position, not to justify an inflated number. Make the home market-ready before the first showing so the presentation supports the price. Stay responsive to feedback during the opening weeks and act quickly if traction is weaker than expected.
About Ashley Kay
Ashley Kay is a licensed Real Estate Professional affiliated with Re/Max Champions, specializing in the San Marino Unified School District market. With a focus on strategic marketing and deep local knowledge, Ashley Kay provides clients with expert guidance in navigating complex real estate transactions. View full profile →