Ask any experienced REALTOR® and they will tell you: price is the single biggest factor in how quickly a home sells and how much it sells for. Price too high and your listing sits; price too low and you may leave money on the table. Here is how to get it right.
Start with a comparative market analysis
A comparative market analysis (CMA) looks at homes similar to yours that have recently sold, are currently listed, and that expired without selling. We compare location, size, age, lot, condition, upgrades and features like a developed basement or double garage, then adjust for the differences.
Sold prices matter more than list prices
A neighbour’s asking price only tells you what they hope to get. Recent sold prices tell you what buyers are actually willing to pay.
Know your market conditions
- Seller’s market: low inventory and strong demand. Homes can sell quickly, sometimes with multiple offers.
- Balanced market: supply and demand are roughly even, and pricing accurately is key.
- Buyer’s market: more listings than buyers. Sharp pricing and great presentation help you stand out.
Conditions can vary a lot between Calgary neighbourhoods and property types, so we look at the data for your specific segment.
Why the first two weeks matter
New listings get the most attention from buyers and their agents. If your home is priced right from day one, you capture that wave of interest. If it is overpriced, buyers move on, and later price reductions can make them wonder what is wrong with the property.
Think in buyer search brackets
Buyers search in price ranges such as $500,000 to $550,000. Listing at $552,000 instead of $549,900 can keep your home out of thousands of searches.
Avoid these common pricing mistakes
- Pricing based on what you need to net rather than what the market will pay.
- Assuming every renovation adds dollar-for-dollar value.
- Leaving “room to negotiate” by starting too high.
- Choosing an agent based on the highest suggested price.
Get a free home evaluation
The Apollo Realty Advisors team will prepare a detailed, no-obligation evaluation of your home with a clear pricing strategy. Contact us today to get started.
