How to Save Thousands of Dollars When You Buy

Smart Strategies to Maximize Value and Avoid Overpaying

 

How Sellers Set Their Asking Price

Before making an offer, it's important to understand how homes are priced. Many sellers use one of these four common pricing strategies. Knowing the difference will help you make smarter offers—and potentially save thousands.

1. Clearly Overpriced

Some homes are listed 10–20% above their market value—often due to unrealistic expectations or agents trying to win the listing.
 What happens:

  • The home lingers on the market.
  • It becomes stigmatized as "unsellable."
  • The seller often ends up accepting less than fair value.
     Your advantage: Avoid these listings or use their extended time on the market as leverage in negotiations.

     

2. Somewhat Overpriced

Roughly 75% of homes fall into this category, priced 5–10% too high.
 Why:

  • Sellers may believe their home is worth more due to emotional attachment.
  • Some intentionally price high, leaving “room to negotiate.”
     Your move: Do your research. Offer fair market value backed by comparable sales.

     

3. Priced at Market Value

These homes are priced realistically based on recent data and competitive analysis.
 Result:

  • These homes sell quickly and close to the asking price.
  • There's less room for haggling but more chance of a smooth transaction.
     Tip: Be ready to move fast—other buyers will spot the value too.

     

4. Priced Below Market Value

Motivated sellers may price low to encourage multiple offers and a quick sale.
 Use caution: Ensure your agent is acting in your best interest—not just aiming for a fast commission.
 Tip: These homes may go for more than asking, so act strategically.

 

🧠 How to Save Thousands When You Buy a Home

If you're like most buyers, you want two things:
 ✅ The right home that fits your needs
 ✅ The lowest possible price

To achieve both, follow these proven steps:

 

✅ Step 1: Know What You Want

Many buyers start shopping without a clear picture of what they really need vs. what they’d love to have. This leads to impulsive decisions—and regret.

In truth, you’re choosing between two types of homes:

  • The one that meets your needs
  • The one that satisfies your desires

     

Your goal: Find a balance—but never compromise on your core needs.

📋 Use This Homebuyer Checklist

🛠 Must-Haves (Needs)
 These are non-negotiables. If a home doesn’t meet these, it’s not right for you.

💖 Nice-to-Haves (Desires)
 These are features that would make the home ideal—but aren't essential.

 

✅Step 2: Shop With Strategy, Not Emotion

It’s easy to get swept up in showings and fall for a home based on staging or curb appeal. But remember:

  • A gourmet kitchen won’t make up for a long commute.
  • A large yard is no substitute for proximity to your child’s school.

     

Stick to your checklist—and revisit it after each showing.

 

✅Step 3: Use a Buyer Profile System

Ask your real estate agent about a Buyer Profile System or House-Hunting Service. These tools automatically match you with homes that meet your criteria—before they hit the broader market.

  • Saves you time
  • Helps you focus
  • Prevents decision fatigue

 

🧠 Final Thought

Buying smart starts with being informed. With a clear strategy, the right tools, and a qualified agent, you can:

  • Save thousands of dollars
  • Avoid common buying traps
  • Move into the perfect home with confidence