What is “Buying a listing”?

Dear clients and friends,

If you’ve never heard the phrase buying a listing, you’re not alone. It’s not a term that comes up in everyday conversation, but if you’re selling your home, it’s something you absolutely need to understand. Unfortunately, some agents engage in this practice, and if you’re not careful, it could cost you thousands.

What Is Buying a Listing?

Simply put, buying a listing happens when an agent agrees with a seller’s inflated price just to win the listing—knowing full well that the home is overpriced. In a competitive market where multiple agents are vying for your business, some will tell you exactly what you want to hear, rather than what you need to hear.

At first glance, this might not seem like a big deal. After all, wouldn’t it be great if your home actually sold for that higher price? The problem is, that’s not how the market works.

Why Overpricing Hurts You

When a home is listed above market value, here’s what happens:

1. It Sits on the Market Too Long – The first two to three weeks are critical when selling your home. That’s when you attract the most serious buyers. If your price is too high, those buyers move on, and your home lingers.

2. You End Up Chasing the Market Down – Eventually, after little to no activity, you’re forced to drop the price. But by that time, you’ve already missed the best window to sell. The home becomes “stale,” and buyers wonder what’s wrong with it.

3. You Sell for Less Than You Would Have – Ironically, the longer a home sits on the market with price reductions, the less it sells for compared to pricing it right from the start. A home that should have sold quickly for top dollar now sells for less because buyers perceive it as undesirable.

How to Avoid This Trap

We understand—choosing an agent can be overwhelming. You want to make sure you’re getting the best service and the best price for your home. So how do you protect yourself from an agent who is just buying your listing?

• Look for Data, Not Just Promises – A great agent will come prepared with market trends, comparable sales, and pricing strategies, not just a number they know you’ll like.
• Watch for Quick Agreement – If an agent instantly agrees to your price with no supporting data, that’s a red flag. A true professional will educate you, not just tell you what you want to hear.
• Choose an Agent You Trust – The best agent isn’t the one who gives you the highest number—it’s the one who gives you the right number based on facts and expertise.

The Chabris Group Difference

At The Chabris Group, we don’t play the game of buying listings. Instead, we arm our sellers with comprehensive market analysis, staging strategies, and pricing insights—everything you need to make an informed, confident financial decision. Selling your home is one of the biggest transactions of your life, and you deserve an agent who treats it that way.

If you’re thinking about selling and want an honest, data-driven conversation about your home’s value, call, text, or email us. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.