The Biggest Mistake Sellers Make in Today’s Central Oregon Market

The real estate market in Central Oregon isn’t the same as it was a few years ago. Interest rates are higher, buyers are pickier, and inventory is shifting. But there’s one mistake that stands out as the costliest for sellers right now:

Overpricing Your Home.

It’s tempting — you’ve seen what your neighbor sold for in 2021, you’ve made upgrades, and you’re confident your home is “worth it.” But here’s the truth:

• Today’s buyers are more informed than ever, thanks to online tools.

• Overpriced homes sit on the market longer, which often forces a price drop later.

• The longer a property sits, the more buyers start wondering, “What’s wrong with it?”

Why Overpricing Hurts More in 2025

In a high-interest rate environment, buyers have less room in their budgets. Even a small difference in asking price can make your home unaffordable to a large portion of the market. That means fewer showings and fewer offers.

The Smart Seller’s Approach

• Price based on current, not past, market data.

• Look at recent sales in your exact neighborhood, not just city-wide averages.

• Factor in your home’s condition, not just size and location.

• Consider pricing slightly under market to create a bidding environment.

In Central Oregon right now, the biggest mistake sellers can make is aiming too high at the start. A well-priced home will attract more attention, sell faster, and often bring in stronger offers than one that starts overpriced and gets stale.

FAQs

Q: Why can’t I just “try” a higher price and lower it later?

A: You can, but homes that linger on the market often lose momentum. Buyers notice price reductions and may assume something’s wrong with the property, which can lead to lower offers.

Q: How do I know if my home is priced correctly?

A: Your realtor should provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) with recent sales of similar homes in your neighborhood, adjusted for condition and amenities.

Q: Does pricing lower than market value really work?

A: In some cases, yes. A slightly lower price can create competition and lead to multiple offers, potentially driving the price above asking.

Q: What role do interest rates play in pricing strategy?

A: Higher rates mean buyers qualify for smaller loan amounts. Even a $10,000 difference in price can make a home affordable—or unaffordable—to many buyers.

Q: Can upgrades justify a higher price?

A: Upgrades can help, but they don’t always return dollar-for-dollar value. The market sets the limit, and buyers compare your home to others in the same price bracket.