Yes, it’s a sellers’ market in the Catskills. Yes, downstate buyers are clamoring for country homes with a little land and a decent Internet connection. Yes, prices are high and homes are selling within a couple of percentage points of asking.
That doesn’t mean sellers don’t have to be realistic.
A very well priced half million dollar home in my area has gotten two offers, both under asking. The sellers, at first, absolutely rejected anything less than full price. But the market is speaking, loud and clear. And those sellers are now negotiating.
The sellers of a ranch on a dead end road in a suburban neighborhood turned down an offer that was within 5% or asking price. They’re holding out for full price. Maybe they’ll get it - eventually.
A sellers’ market isn’t a golden ticket. It means there’s demand. But the market will still set the price, and if a house isn’t getting full price offers, then it means it’s not perceived as worth the asking price. That’s unlikely to change.
An offer, even a low one, is an expression of interest. Unless it’s insultingly low, I advise sellers to engage. Start a dialogue. You might meet at a number that works for everyone.