How To Find the Best Deal Possible on a Home Right Now

If you’ve been watching the housing market and wondering where the real opportunities are hiding, here’s the strategy most people overlook: focus on homes that have been sitting on the market a little longer.

When a listing lingers, sellers usually get more realistic—and often more open to negotiating. That’s where today’s smartest buyers are finding value.

📉 The Opportunity: 1 in 5 Homes Has Cut Its Price This Year

Realtor.com reports that about 1 in every 5 homes (20.2%) has had at least one price reduction this year. And this trend is showing up almost everywhere. What does that mean for you? There are real savings to be found and I know exactly where to look.

🎯 The Strategy: Target the Homes That Have Been Sitting

One of the best ways to find a deal is to look at listings that have been on the market the longest. These sellers may be frustrated, uncertain, or simply ready to move on, and that increases your negotiating power.

Because many buyers skip over these homes, you may even be the only offer the seller receives. That gives you room to ask for things like:

• Closing cost credits

• Home warranties

• Repairs or condition concessions

• Flexible closing dates

As Realtor.com puts it: “Less competition means fewer bidding wars and more power to negotiate the extras that add up.”

Bankrate backs this up too: “During the quieter fall and winter months, home sellers may be more willing to lower their prices or offer concessions…”

This isn’t just theory, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows a clear pattern: The longer a home stays on the market, the lower it tends to sell compared to the original list price.

💵 Why Even a Small Discount Matters

Even a modest price drop can make a big impact. For example, paying 94% of the original asking price might not sound dramatic, but on a median-priced home, that’s roughly $24,000 in savings.

Those savings can free up cash for renovations, furniture, or long-term goals.

Zillow says it best: “If you’re a buyer hoping to strike a deal, look for homes that have been on the market for a while…”

🏡 Bottom Line

If you’re trying to find the best deal possible, start by looking where other buyers aren’t. With more sellers adjusting their expectations, and 1 in 5 reducing their price, these longer-sitting listings could be your best opportunity this season.

If you’re ready to explore your options, reach out. I’ll show you exactly where the best opportunities are in our local market and help you negotiate with confidence.