More Sellers Turn To Clear Price Guides

More vendors are putting clear price guides on their listings as cautious buyers reject the guessing games common during stronger markets.

Agents in Brisbane and Sydney report that buyers are taking longer to make decisions and are increasingly avoiding homes without an advertised price. Higher interest rates, investor tax changes and falling values have reduced fear of missing out and increased fear of overpaying.

The shift reflects changing bargaining power. When competition was intense, sellers could use auctions or listings without prices to test demand. Buyers now have more choice and less urgency, allowing them to demand clarity before inspecting.

One Brisbane property initially offered by auction failed to sell, but secured a buyer within 14 days after being relisted at $1.6 million. The priced campaign also produced its busiest open home.

Clear guides can build trust, qualify buyers and reduce wasted time. However, the figure must be genuine. Advertising above $1.75 million is misleading if a vendor never intended to consider offers near that level.

Regulators are also increasing scrutiny of underquoting today. In a slower market, realistic guides are becoming a practical requirement for buyer engagement and a valuable way for credible agents to stand apart.