CMA Explained: How It Helps Sell Your Home for Top Dollar in 2025
Updated January 29, 2025 | Originally published August 15, 2018
Scott Lehr
Team Leader, The Listing Team at RESF
Licensed Realtor & Pricing Strategy Expert
954-342-6180 | scott@reallistingagent.com
After completing over 1,200 Comparative Market Analyses (CMAs) for Fort Lauderdale area homes, here’s what I know: pricing your home correctly from day one is the single most important factor in getting it sold quickly and for top dollar. Let me break down how a professional CMA works in today’s market.
What Exactly Is a CMA? Your Pricing Blueprint
A Comparative Market Analysis is a detailed report that:
- Analyzes recently sold homes similar to yours (comparables or “comps”)
- Evaluates active listings in your neighborhood
- Adjusts for differences (square footage, upgrades, location)
- Determines your home’s optimal listing price range
Key Difference: Unlike an appraisal (for lenders), a CMA is designed specifically to maximize your sale price.
How a 2025 CMA Differs From 2018
The CMA process has evolved significantly since we first wrote this post in 2018. Here’s what’s changed in our Broward County market:
| Factor | 2018 CMA | 2025 CMA |
|---|---|---|
| Data Points Analyzed | 15-20 | 30-50+ with AI assistance |
| Days on Market Considered | 90 days | 45 days (market moves faster) |
| Price Adjustments | Manual calculations | Algorithmic modeling + local expertise |
| Key Metrics | Price per sq ft | Price per sq ft + “lifestyle premium” for amenities |
What We Analyze in Your 2025 CMA
1. Property-Specific Factors Your Home’s DNA
- Square footage – Living space vs. total under roof
- Bed/bath count – With 2025 buyer preferences
- Year built – Adjusted for recent renovations
- Lot size – Especially important in Weston and Oakland Park
- Pool/waterfront – Current premium values
2. Hyperlocal Market Conditions Neighborhood Intel
- Recent sales – Last 45-60 days (not just closed prices but contract dates)
- Active competition – What buyers are comparing against
- Pending sales – Where the market is heading
- Expired listings – What pricing strategies failed
- Seasonal trends – 2025 South Florida patterns
3. Unique 2025 Considerations Modern Must-Haves
- Home office value – Post-pandemic premium
- Energy efficiency – Impact on insurance costs
- Storm protection – Hurricane windows, generators
- Community amenities – How your HOA stacks up
How a CMA Gets You More Money
Here’s why our seller clients consistently outperform market averages:
1. Avoids the “Overpricing Trap”
Homes priced >5% above market value typically sell for less than properly priced homes (they become “stale”).
2. Identifies Your “Money Features”
We highlight which upgrades actually increase value in your specific neighborhood.
3. Creates Urgency
A well-priced home in 2025 gets multiple offers in the first 2 weeks.
4. Provides Negotiation Power
When buyers see comps supporting your price, they’re less likely to lowball.
Get Your Free 2025 CMA
See exactly what your home could sell for in today’s market – no obligation.
or text “CMA2025” to 954-342-6180
Common CMA Questions
Q: How is a CMA different from Zillow’s “Zestimate”?
A: While Zestimates use algorithms, our CMAs combine:
- Local market expertise (we’ve visited most comps in person)
- Adjustments for unique features
- Knowledge of upcoming neighborhood changes
- Current buyer demand patterns
Q: How long does a CMA take?
A: We typically complete thorough CMAs within 24 hours for Pembroke Pines and Broward County homes.
Q: Is there any cost?
A: No – we provide CMAs as a free service to potential sellers in our community.
Final Thought
In 2025’s fast-moving market, a professional CMA isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. The right price does more than attract buyers; it attracts the right buyers who will appreciate your home’s true value.
Whether you’re ready to sell now or just curious, getting a current CMA is the smart first step. As I tell all my clients: “You can’t make an informed decision without being informed.”
