Why Some Homes Sit on the Market Too Long

Why Some Homes Sit on the Market Too Long (And How to Get Yours Moving)

​Selling your home can feel a bit like throwing a party: you put in the work, set the stage, and wait for guests (or buyers) to show up. But what if no one RSVPs? Or worse—what if people show up, take a look around, and quietly leave without making an offer?

Read on to See the common issues facing sellers and how to fix them.

If your home has been sitting on the market longer than you’d like, don’t panic! It happens more often than you’d think, and there are usually clear reasons behind the stall. Let’s explore some common culprits and how you can turn things around.

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The Price Isn't Quite Right

We all want to get top dollar for our homes, but buyers are savvy, and an overpriced listing can send them running. If your home has been on the market for a while, it might be time to reevaluate the price.
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Solution: Work with your agent to compare your home to similar ones recently sold in the area. A slight price adjustment can attract fresh interest.

First Impressions Aren't Landing

Your home might have great bones, but if the curb appeal or listing photos don’t wow buyers, they might not bother to step inside.
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Solution: A little TLC can go a long way. Tidy up the yard, add fresh flowers, and make sure the front door sparkles. Invest in professional photography to showcase your home in its best light.

The Market is Tough

Sometimes it’s not you—it’s the market. In a buyer’s market, there are more homes for sale than buyers, meaning it can take longer to sell.
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Solution: Be patient and stay proactive. Consider offering incentives like covering closing costs or including appliances to make your home stand out.

The Home Feels Too Personal

Buyers want to picture themselves living in the home, but that’s hard to do when it’s full of someone else’s personality (no matter how fabulous your collection of vintage Elvis memorabilia might be).
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Solution: Declutter, depersonalize, and opt for neutral décor to create a blank canvas for buyers.

The Home Needs a Little Love

Buyers often prioritize move-in-ready homes, and even small issues—like outdated fixtures or scuffed walls—can make them hesitate.
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Solution: Focus on easy fixes like a fresh coat of paint, modern lighting, and minor repairs. These small investments can make a big difference.

Your Marketing Strategy Needs a Boost

If buyers aren’t coming through the door, they might not even know your home is for sale. A lackluster marketing plan can leave your home stuck in the shadows.

Solution: Ensure that you are sharing everything your agent posts about your home on social media with your own followers in order to reach as many potential buyers as possible. Make sure your home is listed in your local MLS, and is showing up on external sites like Zillow and realtor(dot)come as well.

Timing Can be Tricky

Sometimes, it’s simply the wrong season for selling. For example, winter months or holiday periods can see slower buyer activity.
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Solution: If you’re not in a rush, consider taking your home off the market and relisting during a busier season.

Tough Competition with Builders

In many markets, new construction homes are a major draw for buyers. Builders often offer enticing incentives, like covering closing costs, upgrade packages, or discounted financing, which can make resale homes seem less appealing.

Solution: Highlight what makes your home special—mature landscaping, unique character, recent updates, or a prime location—and consider offering your own buyer incentives, such as providing a home warranty, leaving non-realty items like the refrigerator, washer, and dryer, or helping with closing costs, to stay competitive.

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Selling a home is part science, part art, and a whole lot of timing. If your home isn’t selling as quickly as you’d hoped, it’s not a failure—it’s a chance to regroup and adjust. By tackling these common issues, you can turn things around and find the right buyer.

Ready to list your home? I’m here to help every step of the way - from prepping your home for sale to sitting with you at the closing table. Let’s get your home sold!