Reasons Why Your Home Might Not Be Selling and What to Do About It

Mon, Jul 08, 2024 02:18 CET

Are you wondering why your home isn’t selling even though it’s been on the market for some time? Several factors can influence how quickly a house sells, and some tweaks to your strategy can get those viewings rolling in. So what can you do to achieve this?

A house on a desk

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Property expert Thomas Goodman at MyjobQuote.co.uk created this guide to provide his expert advice. Here's a breakdown of some common reasons why your dream home might not be finding its dream buyer, along with solutions to get things moving.

Kerb Appeal Blues

First impressions count, and that applies to houses too. A neglected exterior can turn potential buyers away before they even step through the door. Imagine a house with peeling paint, overflowing bins, and a dishevelled garden. Not exactly an inviting sight, is it?

Spruce up your property's exterior. Give your front door a fresh coat of paint in a welcoming colour. Tame overgrown gardens, add colourful planters with seasonal blooms and ensure your pathway is clear and inviting.

A well-maintained exterior can speak volumes about the care that you've taken inside. Think of it as putting your best foot forward – a positive first impression sets the tone for the entire viewing experience. Consider adding a touch of personality to the property with a well-placed doormat or a potted plant stand.

Pricing Perplexity

An unrealistic asking price can be a major roadblock. If your house is priced significantly above similar properties in the area, buyers might be deterred, assuming it'll stay on the market for a long time or require intense negotiation.

Get a valuation from a reputable estate agent. They consider current market trends, similar properties in your area that have recently sold, and the overall condition of your house to arrive at a competitive asking price.

Don't be afraid to be flexible - a slightly lower price tag can generate more interest and position you to receive offers closer to your asking price. Be prepared to justify your asking price with evidence from the estate agent's valuation and comparable properties in the area.

Presentation Pitfalls

A cluttered or outdated interior can make it rather difficult for buyers to envision themselves living in the space. Imagine walking into a house overflowing with furniture, personal belongings, and décor that hasn't been updated in decades. It's not exactly a blank canvas for buyers' dreams.

Start by decluttering ruthlessly. Pack away personal items and unnecessary furniture to create a sense of spaciousness and give potential buyers the opportuniy to see the true potential of the rooms.

Consider neutral paint colours and stylish accessories to create a modern, inviting feel. Stage your home if necessary – a professional touch can make a world of difference. Staged homes are essentially dressed for success, highlighting the very best features of the property and creating an emotional connection for buyers. Consider focusing on key areas like the living room and kitchen, as these spaces tend to have the biggest impact on buyers.

Marketing Mishaps

Limited online presence or a reliance on traditional methods alone might not be reaching the right audience. The property market these days is heavily influenced by the digital sphere. If your house is being advertised only in a local newspaper – potential buyers searching online might completely miss it.

Partner with an estate agent who utilises strong online marketing strategies. High-quality pictures showcasing the best features of the home from multiple angles are essential. Consider 360-degree virtual tours that allow potential buyers to explore the property remotely, especially if you're targeting out-of-town buyers.

Social media promotion can also be a very powerful tool, reaching a wider audience and generating interest. Targeted online advertising can further increase your reach, focusing on demographics most likely to be interested in your property type and location.

Photography Mistakes

Dark, blurry, or poorly angled photos can leave a negative impression. If you’re using grainy photos with limited lighting, this may make it difficult to see the true potential of the rooms. It's not exactly an advert that will make buyers want to schedule a viewing.

Invest in professional photography. A skilled photographer will know how to capture the light and space of your home, showcasing its true potential to buyers. Professional pictures will highlight the very best features of your property, such as architectural details or a stunning view, creating a sense of desire and encouraging any potential buyers to take the next step. Don't be afraid to discuss your vision with the photographer – ensure they capture the essence of your home and the lifestyle it offers.

Location Limitation

While you can't change the location of your house, understanding its impact on the sale is crucial. Consider factors like proximity to desirable amenities, local schools, and public transport links.

Highlight the positive aspects of your location in your marketing materials. If you're in a quiet cul-de-sac, emphasise the peace and tranquillity. If you're close to excellent schools, play that up for families. Remember, location can be a selling point – work with what you've got!

Flexibility Is Key

Be prepared to be adaptable throughout the selling process. Be open to feedback from your estate agent and potential buyers, and be willing to negotiate on price if necessary.

Maintaining a positive and professional attitude will go a long way. Selling your home can be stressful, but by staying flexible and solution-oriented, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect buyer and moving on to your next chapter.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home is a journey, not a sprint. By addressing these potential roadblocks and working with a good estate agent who understands your property and the local market, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect buyer for your property. So, don't get discouraged – with a little effort, the right approach, and a willingness to adapt your "Sold" sign can be just around the corner.

THOMAS GOODMAN

Thomas Goodman has worked as a property and construction expert for MyJobQuote for six years and has worked in the construction industry for over twenty years. Thomas continues to work on building projects while providing expert construction and property advice to industry professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

MyJobQuote is one of the UK's top trades matching sites that helps individuals find a reputable tradesperson in their local area.

MyJobQuote also has a wide range of experts with extensive knowledge in interior design, cleaning, gardening, property, construction and more. MyJobQuote's experts have been featured in over 700 publications, including Woman and Home, The Times, House Beautiful, BBC News and more.