Selling your house should ideally be a smooth process: a quick sale, a great price, and minimal stress. However, even in today’s competitive market, where buyers often outnumber available homes, certain challenges can keep your house from selling.
In fact, a 2024 report from Zillow shows that 1 in 3 homes listed were removed from the market before being sold. While the reasons for this vary, there are common barriers many sellers face. If your home isn’t selling, here are three key obstacles to watch out for—and how a skilled agent can help you overcome them.
1. Pricing It Too High
Pricing is one of the most critical factors when selling your home. Overpricing, especially in a high-interest-rate environment, is a major reason why homes sit on the market longer than expected. According to U.S. News Real Estate:
"Talk to any real estate expert, and the first thing they’ll tell you is that a house is selling slowly because the price is too high."
While it might be tempting to set a high price to maximize profits, doing so can deter buyers. Homes that linger on the market too long may even appear flawed to potential buyers, regardless of their actual condition.
Today’s buyers have access to tools that make it easy to compare prices and spot overpriced listings. If your home isn’t attracting offers, ask your agent for feedback from showings and open houses. If price concerns are a common theme, it may be time to adjust your asking price.
2. Skipping the Prep Work
You never get a second chance to make a first impression. When it comes to selling your home, ensuring it looks its best can make all the difference.
Start with curb appeal. A tidy lawn, fresh mulch, and some colorful plants can instantly boost your home’s appeal. As Realtor.com explains:
"...buyers do tend to judge a book by its cover. Make sure your home’s first impression inspires them to take a closer look."
Inside the home, small updates can have a big impact. Decluttering, depersonalizing, and adding a fresh coat of paint can make the space feel welcoming and help buyers imagine themselves living there. Updated listing photos can also re-energize your home’s online presence.
For expert advice on what updates will make the biggest difference, lean on your real estate agent.
3. Restricting Showings
One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is limiting the times their home is available for showings. If buyers can’t see your house, they can’t make an offer.
Flexibility is especially important for out-of-town buyers who may have limited availability. Ensuring your home is accessible as often as possible can significantly increase your chances of a sale.
Bottom Line
If your home isn’t selling, don’t lose hope. Talk to your real estate agent about ways to refresh your approach, from pricing adjustments to sprucing up your space. With the right strategy, you can turn things around and achieve your selling goals. Contact us!
