How to Find the Best Deal in Today’s Palmdale Market

If you’re searching for a home in Palmdale and want to make a smart offer —  the timing and strategy you use can make all the difference. Right now, the local market is giving buyers more room to negotiate, but only if they focus on the right listings.

Homes in Palmdale are staying on the market for an average of 55–57 days. This is important because it shows that while some homes are priced aggressively and sell fast, many others sit longer and become strong negotiation opportunities. Not all sellers price their home perfectly from day one. Some list a little high, hoping for strong activity, but over time they realize they need to adjust. That’s where buyers have leverage.

Across the market, we’re seeing an increase in homes selling under the listing price. While every situation is different, the strongest opportunities tend to come from properties that have been sitting longer, not brand-new listings that just hit the market this week.

Why Days on Market Matter for Getting a Good Deal

Homes listed for 60+ days are usually the best candidates for negotiation because:

• Sellers have already gone through weeks of showings and feedback.

• Many have considered or already made price reductions.

• Motivation increases the longer a home sits unsold.

• These homes tend to accept offers below list, sometimes with credits or repairs.

On the other hand, new listings are usually still in the “let’s see what we get” phase. Sellers with a fresh listing rarely accept large reductions — not because buyers are wrong for trying, but because the seller hasn’t had time to feel the market’s response.

The Best Strategy for Buyers Who Want a Deal

Instead of chasing the newest listings with aggressive offers (which often leads to repeated rejections), focus on the homes that are more likely to negotiate realistically.

Here’s the approach that works best in today’s Palmdale market:

• Target listings that have been on the market 60 days or longer.
  These homes offer the strongest chance of negotiating several percentage points below list price.

• Look for homes with previous price reductions.
  A price drop is a clear signal that the seller is adjusting and open to more conversation.

• Compare condition and recent sales.
  Homes needing cosmetic updates often have more room for negotiation.

• Present a serious, well-supported offer.
  Sellers respond better when your offer is backed by comps, motivation, and clean terms.

Avoid This Common Buyer Mistake

Many buyers get excited about brand-new listings and immediately try offering far below list price. The problem?
Fresh listings almost never accept big price drops. These sellers haven’t gone through enough time on the market to feel motivated.

That approach leads to frustration, wasted time, and the false belief that “sellers aren’t negotiating.”
But they are — just not on homes that were listed last week.

Bottom Line

If your goal is to get the best deal possible in Palmdale, the smartest move is to focus on homes that have been sitting longer and sellers who are ready to work with you. That’s where buyers save money, find opportunity, and avoid the disappointment of unrealistic expectations on brand-new listings.

Ready to find the right home at the right price?
I’m Betty Ortiz, and I help buyers negotiate with confidence in today’s market.
Message me today and let’s talk about your goals.