Why Is Your House Sitting on the Market? Here's How to Change That.

October 2, 2024

There’s nothing more frustrating than seeing your house sit on the market with little to no interest.  But don’t lose hope—you can take control and sell it faster with the right strategy.


If your home is sitting on the market longer than expected, you're not alone. According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the average time a house spends on the market has increased over the past few years. Even Realtor.com reports that homes stayed on the market eight days longer compared to the same time last year. 



The truth is, buyers have more options, and mortgage rates have slowed demand. However, there’s one key element many sellers overlook: partnering with the right real estate agent.  A skilled agent can make all the difference, especially in today’s shifting market. If time is critical for you, then finding an agent who knows how to position your home properly is essential. Let me share some insights that I guide my clients through to help them sell their homes quickly, even in this tricky market.


1. Competitive Pricing is Everything

One of the most important factors in selling your home fast is setting the right price. A good agent will do a competitive market analysis—taking a hard look at recent sales and current listings in your area. This data-driven pricing strategy ensures your home isn’t overpriced, which can scare off buyers. As U.S. News wisely points out, “Setting an unrealistically high price with the idea that you can come down later doesn’t work in real estate.”

Pro Tip: Homes priced too high can sit on the market longer, which can lead buyers to think something is wrong with the property. Pricing your home correctly from the start is your best bet for a quick sale.


2. The Condition of Your Home Matters

Homes that are well-maintained, have great curb appeal, and offer modern finishes naturally attract more buyers. Your agent will know exactly what buyers in your area are looking for and can guide you on necessary improvements. If your home is looking a little tired, it may be time to invest in some updates.

As Ramsey Solutions says, “Take care of things now that will be a problem in the closing process.” Addressing plumbing, electrical, or roof issues upfront will not only speed up the sale but avoid complications later. First impressions matter—make sure your home is ready to impress from the first showing!


3. Sweeten the Deal with Incentives

To stand out from the competition, sometimes it takes offering a little something extra. This could be help with closing costs, offering a home warranty, or even including high-ticket items like appliances or furniture in the sale. A real estate agent can help you decide which incentives make sense for your situation based on current market trends.

These added perks can be the final nudge a buyer needs to make an offer, helping you close the deal faster and move on to your next chapter.


My Final Thoughts:

Selling your home in a shifting market isn’t impossible, but it does require a solid strategy. From pricing your home right to making key repairs, these small steps can add up to big results. Most importantly, working with a real estate agent who knows how to navigate these waters will give you the best chance at a fast and successful sale. As Forbes advises, “When time is of the essence, you can’t afford to take a chance on an inexperienced housing professional.”

If you’re ready to move forward and sell your home quickly, make sure to partner with the right agent—someone with local expertise and a deep understanding of what buyers want today. Reach out to me if you or someone you know needs help navigating this market. Let’s get your home sold and your next adventure started!


Source:  Keeping Current Matters

If you have any questions, want to know what the current value of your home is, would like to book an appointment with me or are looking for some free real estate related educational reports; make sure to Check Out My Link tree

Search for your next dream home or find out the value of your current home on my website www.Realvolutionhomes.com 


Dan McDevitt
Cummings & Company Realtors
Team Leader, Realvolution Homes Group