Profit margins have fallen below 45%, so pandemic-era pricing assumptions need a reset before listing in today’s more balanced US market conditions.
Buyers now have more choices and more time, making rushed offers less common and careful comparison a bigger part of negotiations today.
Strategic pricing matters from day one because overpricing can extend market time and make later reductions feel more concerning to budget-focused buyers.
Seller concessions like rate buydowns or repair credits may help, but they cannot fully offset an asking price set too high initially.
Preparation still creates advantage: minor repairs, staging, curb appeal, local comps, and flexible negotiation can support stronger offers in 2026 for sellers.