What do I do if I can’t decide on a selling price?
Can’t decide on a selling price? Pick the one that sells fast and profits more — here’s exactly how.
Quick answer: Price with data, your goal, and a real plan
If you can’t decide on a selling price, stop guessing. Use a market-driven plan: a comparative market analysis (CMA), a clear priority (speed vs top dollar), and a controlled launch strategy. This turns uncertainty into cash — fast.
Step 1 — Get real data: CMA and comparable sales
The single most important step is a current CMA. That means recent sold prices, active listings, and expired listings in your neighbourhood. Comparable sales, days on market, and price-per-square-foot reveal market value. Ask your agent for a detailed CMA — not a guess.
Step 2 — Decide your objective: sell fast or squeeze more value
Be blunt: do you need to sell quickly or do you want to push for the highest price? If time matters, price slightly below market to generate multiple offers. If you can wait, price at market with a strong negotiation plan. The pricing strategy must match the outcome you want.
Step 3 — Use a pricing range, not a single number
Pick a floor (minimum acceptable), a target (realistic market price), and a stretch (ambitious). Present these three numbers to your agent. This keeps emotions out and enables quick decisions when offers arrive. Keywords: pricing a house, pricing strategy, list price.
Step 4 — Launch with intent: marketing + psychological pricing
First two weeks define success. Launch at a price that creates demand. Use psychological prices ($699,900 vs $700,000) and professional photos, 3D tours, and targeted ads. A well-priced home with great presentation attracts buyers and drives competition.
Step 5 — Track metrics and be ready to adjust
Watch showings, online views, and offers. If showings and interest are low after 14 days, your price is the issue. Adjust by a clear increment (2–4%) and re-market. Stale listings lose value.
When to trust your agent — and when to push back
A top agent brings local comps, negotiation skill, and staging advice. But insist on transparency: ask for the CMA, marketing plan, and weekly updates. If the agent won’t justify the list price with data, change agents.
Quick checklist to decide a selling price
- Get a CMA with at least 6 comps
- Choose speed vs max price
- Set floor / target / stretch prices
- Use psychological pricing and a 2-week launch push
- Monitor metrics; adjust by 2–4% when needed
Closing — make a confident decision
Indecision costs money. Use data, pick a clear objective, and execute a launch plan. That’s how top agents turn listings into sold signs.
Tony Sousa is the Toronto-area expert who uses this exact system to price homes accurately and sell them quickly. Contact Tony at tony@sousasells.ca or 416-477-2620, or visit https://www.sousasells.ca to get a free CMA and pricing plan today.
