Sell smart in a tough market
Every market cycles. When conditions soften, some vendors panic, others simply pull their property off the market and wait — and both approaches can cost you. Selling well in a tough market isn't about luck, it's about strategy. Here's what we focus on with our vendors when conditions are challenging.
Price realistically from day one
The single biggest mistake we see in a slower market is overpricing at launch "to leave room to negotiate." In a buyer's market, the opposite happens: overpriced listings sit, buyers assume something is wrong, and by the time you drop the price you've lost the crucial first-two-weeks momentum that drives the most interest and the best offers. A well-researched appraisal, based on recent comparable sales in your specific street or suburb, gives you a defensible starting point.
Presentation matters more, not less
When buyers have more choice, presentation becomes the differentiator. Simple, cost-effective steps — decluttering, a fresh coat of paint in key rooms, tidying the garden, and good quality photography — consistently make a measurable difference to both the speed of sale and the final price achieved.
Choose the right method of sale
Auctions can create urgency in a hot market, but in a softer one, a deadline sale or price by negotiation campaign often suits vendors better by keeping the door open to negotiate as interest builds, rather than risking a pass-in on auction day. We'll talk you through which method fits your property and your timeline.
Be flexible on conditions, not just price
Buyers in a tough market are often cautious, juggling finance approval, sale of their own home, or builder's reports. Being open to reasonable conditional offers — rather than holding out only for unconditional cash buyers — widens your buyer pool considerably.
Work with an agent who communicates
In any market, but especially a slower one, you deserve regular, honest feedback — not just from open homes, but from every enquiry. At One Agency Select Realty, we report back after every viewing so you always know exactly where your campaign stands.
Note: Thinking about listing? We're happy to provide a free, no-obligation appraisal based on real comparable sales in your area.