Asking for less than you want in San Antonio

[Joe S.]

So I have a big nice house that I’m almost ready to put on the market in the next couple of days. What I wanted to ask and want my realtor suggested I ask is about 14 K difference. I thought asking a little bit more and except a little bit less normal practice. My realtor said right now sellers are asking for a little bit less than what they really want and the buyers are bidding it up. Does anyone have any insight into this kind of pricing method?

[Joseph Cacciapaglia]

I think in general the lower asking price benefits agents, but not necessarily sellers. It creates a quick sale, and most agents like to brag about their low days on market. I've challenged a lot of agents that use this strategy, and none have ever been able to provide data that shows it leads to better pricing. It certainly speeds up the sale, but it doesn't sound like that's your priority. In this market, I would price it where I wanted. There are more buyers than sellers in most parts of town today, so it's the best time to get aggressive with your asking price.