Selling your home is an exciting milestone, but when your house lingers on the market, it can quickly turn into a stressful experience. Even in a market with high buyer demand, some properties still face challenges getting sold. In fact, according to Zillow, as many as one in three sellers in 2024 took their homes off the market before they ultimately sold. If your home isn’t selling as quickly as you’d like, it might be due to one of these common pitfalls. Here’s what could be holding you back and how to address it with the help of an expert real estate agent.
1. Overpricing Your Home
One of the most common reasons homes don’t sell is pricing them too high. While it may be tempting to set a high asking price in hopes of maximizing your profit, overpricing can deter buyers and cause your property to sit on the market longer than necessary.
As U.S. News Real Estate explains:
“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.”
In today’s high-interest rate environment, buyers are more cautious than ever, and they’re using tools to compare prices across similar properties in your area. If your home doesn’t align with market expectations, it’s likely to be passed over. To avoid this, work closely with your real estate agent to analyze comparable home sales in your neighborhood. They can help you set a competitive price that attracts serious buyers and increases your chances of closing the deal.
2. Neglecting Presentation
First impressions matter, especially when selling your home. If your property doesn’t appeal to buyers right away, it’s unlikely to gain much traction. Poor curb appeal, outdated interiors, or cluttered spaces can make it harder for buyers to see the potential of your home.
Start by focusing on curb appeal. Simple fixes like trimming the lawn, planting fresh flowers, or repainting your front door can create an inviting exterior. Inside, declutter and depersonalize your space to allow buyers to imagine themselves living there. A fresh coat of neutral paint and small upgrades, such as new light fixtures or modern hardware, can also make a big impact.
And don’t underestimate the power of high-quality listing photos. Professional photography that highlights your home’s best features can make your online listing stand out and draw in more interested buyers.
3. Limited Accessibility for Showings
If buyers can’t easily schedule a time to view your home, it’s going to be harder to sell. Limiting access—whether through restrictive showing hours or last-minute cancellations—can frustrate potential buyers and push them toward other options.
Keep in mind that some buyers, especially those relocating from out of town, may only have a limited window to see homes. Be as accommodating as possible with your showing schedule, and consider allowing virtual tours to cater to remote buyers. Your real estate agent can help you coordinate showings and ensure that your home is available when buyers are ready to see it.
Bottom Line
Selling a home requires a thoughtful strategy. Overpricing, neglecting presentation, and limiting access are three common mistakes that can delay your sale. The good news is that each of these issues is fixable with the right approach and guidance. Partner with an experienced real estate agent to navigate these challenges, make necessary adjustments, and get your home sold quickly and at a fair price. When you’re ready to tackle the market with confidence, reach out to a trusted local expert for support every step of the way.