If you've been searching for a home in Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert, Phoenix, or elsewhere in the East Valley, you've probably seen them. Homes that have been on the market for two months. Three months. Sometimes even longer.
Most buyers scroll right past these listings, assuming something must be wrong with the house. But that instinct could cause you to miss a great opportunity.
In today's market, homes that have been sitting the longest are often where buyers can find some of the best opportunities.
Why Longer Market Time Can Work in Your Favor
When a home sits on the market for an extended period, sellers often become more motivated to make a move. They may reduce the asking price, consider lower offers, or become more flexible during negotiations.
If affordability has been your biggest challenge, these listings deserve a closer look.
Sometimes the home that fits your budget isn't at the top of the search results. It may simply be farther down the list because it has been available longer.
Why Some Homes Sit on the Market
It's easy to assume a lingering listing has major problems, but that's not always the case.
Some common reasons homes stay on the market include:
- The home was initially priced too high.
- The photos or online presentation didn't showcase the property well.
- There are simply more homes for sale in the area, and the listing didn't get enough attention.
None of these situations automatically means there's something wrong with the property itself.
If there are concerns about the condition of a home, a professional home inspection can help uncover potential issues. That information then becomes part of the negotiation process rather than a reason to automatically rule out the property.
How Buyers Can Turn a Lingering Listing Into an Opportunity
When I work with buyers, there are usually two areas we explore with homes that have been sitting on the market.
First, we look at price. We compare similar homes that have recently sold and determine whether there may be room to negotiate.
Second, we explore seller concessions. A seller may not significantly reduce the purchase price, but they may be willing to help in other ways, such as:
- Contributing toward closing costs
- Providing repair credits
- Helping pay for a mortgage rate buydown that can lower monthly payments
These opportunities can sometimes make a meaningful difference in affordability.
Local Knowledge Matters
One of the things I enjoy most about real estate is helping buyers look beyond assumptions and identify opportunities they may have otherwise missed.
As someone who knows the Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert, and East Valley markets well, I've seen homes sit for reasons that had nothing to do with the property itself. I've also seen buyers secure homes they loved simply because they were willing to take a second look.
Sometimes the right home isn't the newest listing. It's the one everyone else overlooked.
About Kip Wilkins
I believe real estate is about relationships, trust, and helping people make confident decisions. Whether you're buying your first home, moving up, downsizing, or simply exploring your options, my goal is to help you understand the process so you can make the best decision for your future.
Kip Wilkins
REALTOR® | Equities Real Estate, LLC
Phone: 208-915-9606
Email: KipWilkinsREALTOR@gmail.com
Website: www.kipsellsaz.com
Serving Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert, Phoenix, and communities throughout the East Valley of Arizona.
Kip Wilkins is a licensed REALTOR® with Equities Real Estate, LLC. REALTOR® is a registered trademark of the National Association of REALTORS®. Equal Housing Opportunity. MLS Participant. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified.