22/09/2026
Rightmove: 74% of Sold Properties Didn't Need a Price Reduction
Getting the asking price right from the start could make all the difference
One of the most interesting findings in Rightmove’s latest property market data is that 74% of properties that have sold so far this year did not require an asking-price reduction before finding a buyer.
The figure highlights an important point for anyone thinking about putting their home on the market: getting the asking price right at the outset can be crucial.
First impressions matter – and so does the price
When a property first comes onto the market, it is likely to receive its greatest exposure. Buyers who have been searching for a home may already be familiar with the local market and will quickly compare a new listing with other properties available.
If a property is priced significantly above what buyers consider to be its market value, it can result in fewer viewings and less interest.
Over time, a property may then require a price reduction to attract buyers who previously felt it was too expensive.
Rightmove's figure suggests that the majority of properties which have successfully sold this year did so without needing to take that route.
Why overpricing can be costly
It can sometimes be tempting for sellers to test the market at a higher price, particularly when they have a figure in mind that they would ideally like to achieve.
However, today's buyers have access to an enormous amount of information. They can compare similar properties, look at previous sales and monitor how long homes have been on the market.
A property that remains unsold for a long period can potentially lose some of its initial impact.
By contrast, pricing a property correctly from the beginning can help generate interest when the property is fresh to the market and potentially encourage more buyers to arrange viewings.
It doesn't mean every property should be priced low
Getting the price right doesn't mean accepting less than your home is worth.
The objective is to establish a price that reflects the current market while giving the property the best possible opportunity of attracting serious buyers.
A changing market makes accurate valuations even more important
With more properties currently available to buyers, sellers are competing for attention.
This makes accurate pricing particularly important. Buyers have more choice, and properties which offer good value are likely to attract greater attention than those perceived to be overpriced.
Rightmove's 74% figure is therefore an important reminder for sellers: rather than automatically starting high and hoping to negotiate down, there can be real advantages to entering the market at a realistic and well-researched asking price.
Thinking of selling?
If you're considering selling your home, the best place to start is with an up-to-date valuation and an honest assessment of the competition.
At Aldreds, we can advise you on the current market, look at comparable properties and help you establish an asking price designed to attract buyers from the outset.
Getting the price right at the beginning could be the difference between sitting on the market and getting your move underway.
