Selling the Nicest Home on the Block: it’s harder than you think

In real estate, we often assume that the nicest home on the block will be the easiest to sell. After all, who wouldn’t want the biggest yard, the most upgrades, or the freshly remodeled kitchen? But as I recently discussed with fellow agent Colby Larson in a candid and laughter-filled conversation, that assumption doesn’t always hold up.

In fact, selling the best home in the neighborhood can come with its own unique set of challenges—and if you’ve ever been in that position, you know exactly what we mean.

The Problem with Standing Out

When a home significantly outshines its neighbors—whether in size, finishes, or overall curb appeal—it can unintentionally create hesitation for buyers. Colby and I have both seen it: a beautifully updated home sits on the market longer than expected, not because there’s anything wrong with it, but because it simply doesn’t “match” the rest of the street.

Buyers are savvy. They’re not just looking at your home—they’re looking at the context. They wonder:

• Will this home appraise for what it’s listed at?

• Will I be able to resell it in a few years if the surrounding homes are smaller or less updated?

• Am I overpaying for the neighborhood?

These are valid concerns, and they can cause even the most enthusiastic buyers to hesitate.

Pricing with Precision

One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation was the importance of pricing strategy. When your home is the standout, you can’t simply rely on price-per-square-foot comparisons. You have to consider the broader picture: what are buyers willing to pay for a home that’s exceptional—but surrounded by more modest properties?

Colby and I both agree: pricing the “best” home on the block requires nuance. It’s about finding that sweet spot where the value of the upgrades is honored, but not so inflated that it scares off potential buyers.

Marketing the Story, Not Just the Specs

Another key strategy? Telling the right story. When a home is unique, the marketing has to go beyond bullet points. It has to connect with the right buyer—someone who sees the value in quality, who wants to be the standout, and who isn’t afraid to lead the neighborhood in style.

We’ve found that these buyers exist. They just need to be shown why this home is a smart investment, not a risky outlier.

A Little Humor Goes a Long Way

Of course, no episode with Colby is complete without a few laughs. One of my favorite moments was when he shared a story about a buyer who toured a gorgeous home and then asked, “Why is everything else around it so… meh?” It was funny, yes—but also a perfect example of the perception gap that can happen when a home is too far ahead of its surroundings.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a homeowner with the nicest house on the block, don’t panic. You’re not alone and you’re not at a disadvantage. You just need a thoughtful approach, a pricing strategy rooted in reality, and a marketing plan that speaks to the right buyer.

And if you’re not sure where to start? That’s what we’re here for.

If you’d like to actually HEAR our stories and laughter, check out this episode on You Tube and Spotify

Interested in meeting Colby Larson, click here to send him an email..