A guide for sellers who want results without regret

Pricing a home in Toronto has never been more complicated—or more emotional. Some sellers are still hoping for bidding wars. Others worry about sitting on the market for months. And almost everyone fears that one thing:
Getting a lowball offer that makes the entire process feel like a mistake.

If you’re preparing to sell your home or condo in Toronto in 2025, this post will walk you through how to price it right—so it sells for what it’s worth, without weeks of silence or disappointing offers.

1. What’s Changed in 2025? Pricing Expectations vs. Reality

The Toronto market is no longer the runaway seller’s market it was in 2021–2022. Interest rates have reshaped how much buyers can afford, and overpricing—even by a little—can push your property off the radar entirely.

What’s happening now:
– Serious buyers are active, but they’re cautious
– Overpriced listings get ignored and sit on the market
– “Offer dates” don’t guarantee multiple offers anymore
– Some buyers are submitting aggressive low offers—testing desperate sellers

This shift means sellers need to price for strategy—not wishful thinking.

2. Why Overpricing Backfires (Even When the Market Is Strong)

It’s tempting to start high and leave room to negotiate. But in Toronto’s current market, that often leads to silence—not offers.

What happens when you price too high:
– Your listing may not appear in filtered searches
– Buyers assume you’re not serious—or not flexible
– You lose the momentum of your first 7–10 days on the market
– Eventually, a price drop signals weakness and invites lowball offers

The result? A longer time on market and less leverage when the right buyer finally shows up.

3. Why Underpricing Can Still Work—but Only in Specific Cases

You’ve probably seen homes listed at attractive prices that sell far over asking. While this tactic can work in hot sub-markets, it’s not a guarantee anymore.

Underpricing works when:
– The home is in a very desirable area (school zone, walkable, transit access)
– It’s in excellent showing condition and staged well
– Inventory is low in your category (e.g., detached under $2M in top neighbourhoods)

It may backfire when:
– The home has flaws or needs updating
– You don’t get enough showings to spark competition
– Buyers hesitate, thinking there’s a catch

Today, buyers are more cautious. If they sense a pricing game, they may sit it out completely.

4. How to Set a Price That Attracts Serious Offers—Not Lowballs

The goal is simple: price your home where it will attract qualified, motivated buyers without looking vulnerable.

Here’s how to get it right:
– Review comparable sales from the past 30–60 days—not last year
– Understand what homes didn’t sell—and why
– Account for condition, lot size, layout, and updates
– Talk honestly about your “walk-away price” with your agent
– Price slightly under fair market value if your goal is multiple offers—but only if conditions are right

This is where strategy matters. Pricing is not about chasing the highest number—it’s about positioning your property where the right buyers will compete for it.

5. What to Do If You Receive a Low Offer

Lowball offers are frustrating—but they’re not the end of the deal. What matters most is how you respond.

If you receive a low offer:
– Don’t take it personally. It’s a negotiation tactic
– Look at the offer details: deposit, closing date, conditions—some may be in your favour
– Counter, but with intention. Make your bottom line clear
– Ask your agent to re-engage other showing agents—momentum often brings clarity

Important: The first offer you receive may still be your best—especially if it comes early. Handle it professionally and strategically.

Final Thought

Pricing your Toronto home correctly isn’t about chasing headlines or holding out for magic—it’s about knowing the market, setting clear expectations, and working with a listing agent who understands strategy, not guesswork.

If you’re considering selling and want to get the price right from day one, I’m here to help you avoid missteps and maximize your result—without leaving value behind.

Send an email at olena@agentolena.com or call 647.294.3039 to get started.