Too many times you will hear a client say something along the line of " I need to get at least $XXXX from the sale of my property". There is only one problem with that --- need/want and reality are too often two very different beasts. Needs and wants are what the client desires. Everyone's home is so much better than the neighbor's home and therefore demands a higher value with fewer showings and less time on the market. To make each of our lives perfect, we always want to see our needs and wants fulfilled with the least amount of complication and effort.
The reality of the situation is that anything you sell, whether it be a home, car, or widget (remember Marketing 101 in college?) is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Sure, you can place what you think is a fair value on a home, but the home ultimately is only worth what a buyer is willing to write the check for.
Understanding market values is not a subject of study for the average seller, but rather a passion for the experienced realtor to pass along in a clear and concise way that will eliminate any room for disillusionment or misinterpretation. Setting proper expectations with realistic goals will always make the entire transaction go smoother for buyers, sellers, Realtors, and any friends and family sharing in the experience.
Make your time profitable and your clients knowledgeable!