Is a "Stale" Listing a Red Flag? In Today's Market, It's an Opportunity.

When you’re browsing homes on kipsellsaz.com and see a property that’s been sitting for 60, 90, or even 100+ days, your first instinct is likely: “What’s wrong with it?”

A few years ago, that skepticism was justified. In a "blink-and-you-miss-it" market, anything that lasted more than a weekend usually had a glaring issue. But the Arizona market has shifted, and that old logic could be causing you to pass over your dream home.

The New Reality of "Days on Market"

The buying frenzy of the past has cooled into a more balanced, "normal" pace. Inventory has grown, meaning buyers finally have the luxury of choice. Because of this, the typical time it takes for a home to sell has climbed across the board.

Seeing a home hit the 70 or 80-day mark isn't a sign of a "bad" house anymore; it’s often just a reflection of the current market rhythm. It feels slow only because we became so used to homes selling in hours.

Why Great Houses Linger

Most of the time, a home stays on the market not because of a cracked foundation, but because of "soft" factors that work in your favor:

• The Price Tag: The seller may have started with an overly ambitious price and missed the initial wave of buyers.
• The "First Impression": Maybe the listing photos didn't capture the true feel of the space, or the curb appeal needs a minor weekend DIY project.
• Market Noise: It simply got buried under a wave of flashier, new-to-market listings.

Why "Stale" is Good for Your Wallet

A house with a high "Days on Market" count is a buyer’s best friend. Why? Leverage.

When a home has been sitting, the seller is often much more motivated to talk. This is your window to negotiate:

1. Price Reductions: Sellers are more realistic about accepting lower offers.
2. Closing Costs: You have a much better chance of getting the seller to cover your closing costs or buy down your interest rate.
3. Repairs: Instead of "as-is" ultimatums, you’ll find sellers more willing to address items found during your home inspection.

Bottom Line

Don't let a number dictate your interest. If a home fits your needs but has been sitting for a while, it’s not a warning sign—it’s a hidden gem that other buyers are too nervous to look at.

Kip Wilkins kipsellsaz.com

Meet Kip Wilkins: Your East Valley Real Estate Guide

With over 20 years of sales and customer service excellence, Kip Wilkins is a dedicated REALTOR® with the Arizona Dream Living team. Specializing in Chandler, Ahwatukee, and Gilbert, Kip is known for his professionalism, integrity, and a "client-first" philosophy summarized by: "Dream Living, Educated Choices, Your Home."

Kip has a special affinity for first-time homebuyers, using his patience and market knowledge to turn an anxious process into an empowering journey. Whether you are looking for a suburban retreat in 85224 or a foothills oasis in 85044, Kip provides the market analysis and transparency you need to make informed choices.

Expertise Includes:

• Residential Sales: Expert representation in Chandler and Ahwatukee.
• First-Time Buyer Education: Alleviating fears through transparency.
• Generational Wealth: Helping families use homeownership as a financial foundation.

Ready to start your journey in the East Valley? Visit kipsellsAZ.com to explore listings or download Kip’s exclusive eBooks, "Living the Dream" and "The Art of Home Selling."