It is rare that a seller’s motivation will dramatically affect the price of a home, but it is occasionally possible to save a few thousand dollars. The most common "motivated seller" is someone who has already bought his or her next home or is relocating. They will be under pressure to sell the home in a hurry or be faced with the prospect of making two mortgage payments.

There are also times when a seller is truly distressed and willing to make a quick sale, sacrificing thousands of dollars. This type of information may even be posted on the MLS. These situations most often involve the loss of a spouse or a job.