> whereas the homeowner wants to maximize sale price

I suspect that most homeowners don't understand the time value of money. Selling it quicker for a lower price may be better for the homeowner, as he can then invest the proceeds.

Holding out for a better price means you continue to pay property tax, homeowners insurance, maintenance, repairs, and your money tied up in the house is not making money for you.

When I've sold my house, I would slightly underprice it in order for a quick sale, which worked pretty good. That also worked when the buyer would come back with a bunch of inspection complaints, and I'd reply with "it's underpriced, sale is as is", and it'd sell.