Getting a home under contract under asking price is rare in today’s Grand Rapids market — especially for a first-time homebuyer and especially on a property that’s nearly new construction.

This condo had only been on the market a short time, and demand for newer, low-maintenance homes in West Michigan remains strong. Because of that, pricing mistakes don’t last long — buyers who hesitate usually miss the opportunity.

The Buyer’s Goal

My client, a first-time homebuyer, was looking for something newer that didn’t come with the typical maintenance or renovation concerns. Condos like this don’t come along often, and when they do, they usually sell quickly — often at or above asking price.

The Opportunity

This home stood out immediately. It showed extremely well, had modern finishes, and checked nearly every box — yet it was positioned in a way that allowed for a strategic conversation rather than a bidding war.

We moved quickly, evaluated the numbers carefully, and structured an offer that made sense — not just for the buyer, but for the seller as well.

The Result

We were able to get this nearly new construction condo under contract for significantly under asking price, which is especially uncommon in Grand Rapids and West Michigan as a whole.

For a first-time buyer, this kind of result doesn’t come from luck — it comes from:

• Knowing when to act

• Understanding value vs. list price

• Writing offers with intention

• Avoiding emotional overbidding

What Buyers Should Take Away

Even in competitive markets, opportunities still exist. Not every home requires escalation clauses or waived protections — but buyers need guidance to recognize when a window is open and how to move decisively when it is.

If you’re a first-time buyer or someone looking for a newer home in Grand Rapids or West Michigan, the right strategy can still create strong outcomes.