Want to score the best possible deal in today’s housing market? A surprisingly effective strategy is to focus on homes that have been sitting on the market for a while. When a listing lingers, sellers often become more realistic and more open to negotiation — and that’s exactly where savvy buyers find opportunities other buyers overlook.

Data shows a meaningful share of listings have already lowered their price this year, and many sellers are growing more flexible week by week. With the right agent and a targeted search, buyers can turn those longer-standing listings into substantial savings.

According to Realtor.com, roughly one in five listings (about 20.2%) has reduced its asking price at least once. That figure is consistent across regions, which means that no matter where a buyer looks, there’s a real chance to find a better deal. This widespread pattern signals that motivated sellers exist in most markets — and that buyers who know where to look can find them. Recognizing this opportunity is the first step toward getting more value for the money.

An experienced agent can identify which properties have been on the market the longest — the ones most likely to yield discounts. Sellers with lingering listings may be growing frustrated and more willing to negotiate. Because many buyers avoid homes that haven’t sold quickly, a motivated buyer may even be the only offer a seller receives.

Less competition reduces bidding wars and increases negotiating power over items that add up: closing cost credits, home warranties, repair concessions, and more. Bankrate also highlights that during quieter seasons (fall and winter), sellers are often more willing to lower prices or offer concessions to attract active buyers.

A modest reduction from the original asking price can translate into thousands of dollars saved. For example, paying about 94% of the original price on a median home could mean roughly $24,000 in savings. Those seemingly small percentage moves add real purchasing power — money that can be used for repairs, upgrades, or to lower the loan amount. Zillow’s advice is clear: look for homes that have been on the market awhile and may have already lowered their prices to attract buyers; you’re more likely to find a motivated seller willing to negotiate.

---

Bottom line

If a buyer wants the best deal possible today, start by looking where others aren’t: listings that have been sitting and those that have cut price. With about 1 in 5 sellers reducing prices and many growing more flexible, longer-standing listings could be the best source of savings.

🔎 If you want help finding these opportunities in our area, let’s connect and I’ll show you where to look.