If you’re looking for the strongest opportunities in today’s market, here’s where savvy buyers are winning: focus on the homes that have been sitting a bit longer.

When a listing lingers, sellers often become more realistic - and more open to negotiation. That’s where informed buyers are finding value that others overlook.

The Opportunity: 1 in 5 Homes Has Seen a Price Cut This Year

Realtor.com reports that 1 in every 5 listings (20.2%) has reduced its asking price at least once. And while many aspects of the market vary by region, this trend is consistent nationwide.

That tells us something important:

No matter your location, there are opportunities to secure a better deal - if you know where to look.

The Tactic: Zero In on the Homes That Have Been Sitting the Longest

This is where having the right agent matters. We help clients identify properties with longer days on market - the ones most likely to offer negotiating power.

Sellers of these homes may be growing impatient or simply ready to move forward, making them more flexible. And because many buyers avoid listings that haven’t moved quickly, you may find yourself as one of the only offers they receive, which strengthens your position.

As Realtor.com explains:

“Less competition means fewer bidding wars and more power to negotiate the extras that add up: closing cost credits, home warranties, even repair concessions . . . these concessions can end up knocking thousands of dollars off the price of a home.”

Bankrate highlights the same opportunity:

“During the quieter fall and winter months, when fewer prospective buyers are shopping, home sellers may be more willing to lower their prices, or offer concessions, to attract those prospective buyers who are still looking.”

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) backs this up with clear data: the longer a home stays on the market, the more likely it is to sell below its original price.

Why Even Small Savings Matter

Paying 94% of the original asking price might not sound dramatic, but on a median-priced home, that’s approximately $24,000 in savings.

Zillow puts it simply:

“If you’re a buyer who is hoping to strike a deal, look for homes that have been on the market for a while, and that may already have lowered prices to entice buyers. You may find a motivated seller who is more willing to negotiate.”

What This Means for You

If your goal is to secure meaningful value in today’s market, start by exploring the listings others overlook.

With price reductions on the rise and sellers becoming increasingly flexible, the homes that have been sitting a bit longer may offer some of the strongest opportunities for savings.

If you're ready to take a strategic approach to finding the right home at the right price, the Price Group is here to guide you with clarity, insight, and data-backed expertise.