What Downsizer Sellers in Bergen County Need to Know Right Now
What should downsizing homeowners in Bergen County understand about the current real estate market?
The market is still active but shifting. If you're thinking about selling your home and moving into something smaller, timing, strategy, and pricing matter more than ever.
The Market Hasn’t Slowed, But It’s Shifted
The latest MLS report shows 25 active listings across middle to upper-middle-class Bergen County towns like Glen Rock, Ridgewood, Fort Lee, and Tenafly. The average list price is $1.74M, with homes staying on the market for about 28 days. That’s not slow, but it’s noticeably different from the bidding wars we saw over the past few years.
Buyers are still active, but they’re cautious. High interest rates and more inventory give them options, which means your home needs to stand out both in presentation and price.
Why This Matters for Downsizers
If you're a longtime homeowner in Bergen County looking to downsize to a lower-maintenance property, your ideal buyer is likely a move-up family seeking more space and closer proximity to NYC.
Here’s what they expect:
- Move-in ready condition
- Flexible spaces (think: home office or in-law suite)
- Great layout for everyday living and entertaining
If your home needs updates, the pricing strategy becomes even more important.
Strategic Pricing Is Key
Strategic Pricing Is Key
Many of the homes in the current report are beautifully renovated, priced in the $1.4M–$2M range, and located in desirable neighborhoods with easy NYC access. That’s your competition.
To sell quickly and for top dollar:
- Get a current market analysis from a local expert
- Compare active listings AND recent sales
- Understand buyer expectations for your town and price range
Presentation Still Sells
Even in a shifting market, staging and professional photography make a big difference. Today’s buyers scroll first and visit later, which means your home has to shine online.
For downsizers, especially, decluttering and showcasing how spaces can be used flexibly helps buyers imagine themselves in your home.
Timing Matters More Than Ever
While the Bergen County market is stable, it's also nuanced. Towns like Tenafly and Glen Rock are still seeing strong buyer demand, but days on market are stretching slightly compared to earlier in the year.
Listing at the right time (based on local buyer activity, school calendars, and interest rate trends) can significantly impact your outcome.
Final Thought: It's a Market of Opportunity—With the Right Strategy
Downsizing doesn’t have to mean "starting over." It’s a chance to cash in on your home equity and move into a lifestyle that fits your next chapter. But selling smart in this market requires local knowledge and proactive marketing.
Looking to downsize? Let’s connect to talk about your goals and how to get the best possible result in today’s Bergen County market.
Call Scott Selleck with KW City Views Realty for a free consultation at 201-970-3960 or 201-592-8900. Email: [email protected].
