There are many potential reasons why you’re struggling to sell your house.
Some of them you might realise already. Others may be less obvious.
In this blog, we’ll explore ten common reasons to consider and what you can do about them.
1. Your asking price isn’t right
One major factors in homes not selling is starting at the wrong asking price.
When you get a valuation for your home, take an honest look at comparable properties in your area. How do they compare in:
- Size
- Condition
- Location
- Amenities.
Don’t rely solely on a single estate agent to get an accurate idea of the current market value. At least get a few quotes from different estate agents.
And consider getting a conveyancer for an objective valuation. This will cost you, but in the long-run the more accurate valuation may save you money.
2. Your estate agent is ineffective
A good estate agent markets your property extensively and secures as many viewings as possible.
If you’ve had few views, it’s time to question how effectively your agent promotes and advertises your home.
Discuss new marketing strategies and consider switching to a more proactive estate agent.
Finding a proactive estate agent will have good relationships with other estate agents in the area and a large client base of prospective buyers to market your property.
3. Photos are poorly taken
Photos are one of the main ways buyers get a first impression of your home. Dark, blurry or inaccurate photos are off-putting and could be hinder interest.
Optimal photos significantly boost online engagement. Professional photographers have the skills and equipment to stage and light your property, making it look its absolute best.
4. Too much personalisation
It’s crucial that buyers can envision themselves living in the property when viewing. If your home is overly personalised with your style and taste, it’s harder for others to see past it.
Declutter, depersonalise and neutralise the décor so buyers can imagine putting their stamp on it.
Staging your home can also help buyers picture themselves living there. Remove family photos, bold wall colours, and décor with a distinctive style that distracts buyers from seeing the home’s potential.
5. Market Conditions
Certain market conditions, such as:
- Rising interest rates
- Inflation
- Stock market changes
- Economic uncertainty
- Make selling more complicated.
Buyer demand fluctuates based on market forces, which are out of your control.
When markets are slow, you may need to adjust your expectations on price and timescales. Set a competitive asking price and be prepared to accept a lower offer.
6. Local factors
If lots of shiny new-build properties are being constructed in your area, buyers could be more tempted by these options, which feel more current and modern. Your older home may seem dated in comparison.
Existing or potential issues can deter buyers. Examples incluide:
- Flight paths
- Power lines
- Planning disputes
- Noisy neighbours
- High local crime rates.
Be upfront about any negatives impacting your home or area. You must disclose important issues when selling.
Surveys will likely uncover them anyway, and if they don’t, you might face legal action from buyers later on.
8. Wrong time of year
Property market activity is relatively seasonal. There are better – and worse – times to sell a house.
List your home during more active spring or autumn markets if possible.
However, a well-priced, well-marketed home in a popular area can sell at any time of year.
Work closely with your estate agent to identify the best periods to list your property.
Be aware of local events or holidays that cause dips in buyers. Remain patient and flexible when listing near slower seasons.
9. Lack of flexibility on your part
In a tough market, buyers expect negotiation and compromise.
Being too rigid over your price, completion dates, or other terms and conditions can put buyers off making an offer.
Show you’re willing to negotiate – getting a reduced offer is better than not.
Stay open-minded to reasonable offers and requests to build rapport with buyers. Compromise on small concessions that help seal the deal.
Flexibility shows motivation to sell, but don’t accept an offer you’re unhappy with.
10. Poor marketing
Ineffective marketing makes it harder for the right buyers to find your listing and get excited about viewing your home.
As well as great photos, emphasise your home’s best features, USPs and lifestyle perks in the listing description.
Boost visibility by advertising on social media and get quality online exposure on free home listing websites sites like Rightmove or Zoopla.
You may also consider hiring a copywriter or marketing professional to produce creative, enticing listings for maximum impact.
Plus, invest in video tours so buyers view rooms online before visiting.
Selling your house quickly for the right price
Selling a home quickly and for the right price depends on maximising its appeal and marketability from all angles. If your property has been struggling to sell, use the above points to identify and address any areas that could be letting you down.
You can turn your home’s fortunes around with the right strategy and marketing approach. Don’t lose hope – take proactive steps to get your property off the market faster.
Alternatively, you could contact a cash house buyer who can take the property off your hands for free, in an extremely short timeframe. Get in touch today to discuss if We Buy Any Home can do this for you.
