And some buyers even feel bold enough to offer less than the asking price, though few developers are biting.

Widespread as this may be, many buyers feel more than a little uncomfortable about revealing that they have paid seven figures for a home.

"Crime is not in your face anymore," he said, "and buyers feel they have control over their front door."

"Most first-time buyers feel inadequate to analyze insurance," he said.

The most likely buyers - young professionals - are feeling the pinch of rising mortgage rates.

For this the officials took a fat commission, but the buyer didn't feel the pinch.

Price reductions also work by making buyers feel more in control.

Auction houses go the extra mile to make buyers feel welcome.

And buyers could then feel good about their purchases.

"I think it's just a perception that makes the buyer feel like their property is special."