If your home is sitting idle on the market and isn’t getting any offers, something could be wrong. While there are many reasons why this might be happening, here are 5 possible reasons for you to consider. This also might sound like a home seller’s nightmare, so we’ll provide some advice on how to remedy each situation as well.
Reason #1 – Unrealistic Pricing
Even if you are in a “seller’s market,” that does not mean that you can list your home for any amount you want! Determining the best asking price is one of the most important aspects of selling a home.
The solution: Work with your real estate agent to develop a realistic price range for your home, based on recent sales of similar homes in your neighborhood (aka “comps”). If you are competitive with your price, you will attract the attention of buyers. Furthermore, the more interest from buyers means the more potential for offers.
Reason #2 – Clean Your House
Plain and simple, a home for sale should be neat and tidy. Potential buyers need to be able to easily envision themselves in the space. Unfortunately, they won’t want to envision having to clean or do major updates on the home first before moving in.
So, if you want your home to sell quickly and for top-dollar, the solution is to remove clutter, do a thorough deep clean, and perform any necessary updates on the home before listing. For more information on what updates you should do on your home, read our blog “The Best and Worst Home Renovations You Can Do.”
Reason #3 – Poor Photos
Just like pretty much everything else now-a-days, the vast majority of buyers look for homes online. Therefore, if you don’t have beautiful, professional photos of your home, you are going to miss out on potential buyers. Quality photos are what draws buyers in to seeing it in person.
The solution: Make sure your real estate agent hires a professional photographer to showcase your home in its best light.
Reason # 4 – Not Giving Access
Remember that buyers do not live by your schedule. If your home isn’t selling, take a look at your showing schedule. Is it too restricted? Try to remain as flexible as possible so more people have the opportunity to look at your home in person.
The solution: Simply open up your showing times! If you have kids, having a plan for activities and a bag of snacks and supplies ready to go in the car will really help for those last minute showings when you need to get out of the house fast.
Reason # 5 – Wrong Real Estate Agent
As a final thought on why your home might not be selling, remember that not all real estate agents are created equal. A poor listing agent will allow you to overprice the home just to get the listing. They might also do little to market the home and be unresponsive to interest from other agents.
The solution: Interview several agents before choosing the one to list your home. It WILL be worth the extra time.
If you’re thinking about selling and would like expert advice, our team can help! We have sold hundreds of homes in the PNW, and would love to help sell yours quickly and for top-dollar! Shoot us a text or give us a call at 253-537-HOME!
