Want a Better Deal on a Home? Start by Looking Where Others Aren’t
In today’s fast-moving housing market, many buyers assume every home will spark a bidding war. But the real bargains rarely come from the hottest listings. Instead, these days the smartest buyers are focusing on something far less obvious: homes that have been sitting on the market for a while.
When a property lingers, sellers often become more flexible. Their expectations shift, and they’re more open to negotiating and sometimes for more than you’d expect. That’s exactly where today’s most strategic buyers are finding hidden opportunities.
Why These Listings Matter
Many markets have been seeing shifts this year. As things adjust, recent data from Realtor.com shows that roughly one out of every five homes on the market has reduced its asking price at least once this year. This trend shows up across almost every region in the country. What this means is no matter where you live, discounted homes are out there and you just need to know how to spot them.
How to Find These Deals
This is where working with an experienced real estate agent makes a real difference. We can quickly pinpoint which homes have been listed the longest, often the ones most primed for negotiation. Sellers of these properties may be feeling the pressure of time, and that can make them far more receptive to offers they might have rejected earlier.
Because many buyers shy away from older listings, you may face less competition. That opens the door to negotiating for lower prices, seller credits, repairs, or other valuable concessions which are the perks that can easily save you thousands.
And the trend is backed by industry research. The National Association of Realtors consistently finds that the longer a home remains on the market, the more likely it is to sell below its original list price.
Small Discounts, Big Impact
Even modest price reductions can make a meaningful difference. Paying just a few percentage points less on a median-priced home can translate into tens of thousands of dollars saved. This money can then go toward upgrades, closing costs, or simply staying in your pocket.
If you’re serious about stretching your homebuying budget, focus on the properties others are overlooking. With so many sellers adjusting prices and growing more motivated, these listings that have more days on the market may be your best shot at securing real value. Contact me today and let’s start your home search.
