Struggling to sell your property? Here’s some possible reasons why
If you’ve put a place on the market not so long ago, you no doubt initially did so in high expectations of a prompt offer and multiple viewings from early on. But if a few weeks or even months have passed since then, your agent is urging you to drop the asking price and no one is coming to see the property, you could be forgiven for wondering what on earth has gone wrong.
In truth, there could be any number of reasons why your home is still on the market. Here are some of them:
1.) It’s not the best time of year: Families tend to move in the autumn or spring, older people in the summer. Have a think about your ideal or most likely buyer, and whether you have pitched at the right time of year for them. And in the dead of winter or in the run-up to Christmas, would-be sellers may struggle to drum up much interest.
2.) The photos haven’t done your property justice: Potential buyers get their first impression of a flat or house from the photos. And property websites can be competitive, with numerous places listed. Make sure you either use a professional photographer who portrays your home in the best possible light, or that your estate agent understands when furniture needs moving and when to use a wide-angle lens. Don’t settle for below-par imagery.
3.) The asking price isn’t right: Clearly, price can make or break a sale. Be guided by your agent’s valuation and do some online research yourself to see what local properties like yours are going for. Make sure what you’re asking for is realistic and reasonable, and that your agent hasn’t overvalued your home – it happens.
4.) Your place just isn’t ready for the market: Try to view your property through the eyes of someone who hasn’t seen it before. Is it cluttered? Does it need some fresh paint? Do some rooms just look tired? Does it lack kerb appeal? (In other words, does it look unappealing when viewed from the street?) Key factors here include windows being in decent nick, a tidy front garden and path or driveway, with the roof in a good condition.
5.) The estate agent isn’t doing the best job: If you feel the agent isn’t doing all they can to sell your home, ask what else they could do to market it. Keep in frequent contact and ensure you get regular feedback on how things generally, and viewings, are going. Be open with your agent about what you expect.
What can you do if your house won’t sell?
In this scenario, you have a number of options including:
· Switching estate agents to one that does a better job.
· Improving your property to make it seem more enticing to a prospective buyer.
· Considering a multi-agency agreement, in which you can instruct as many agents as you wish to sell your home.
Why Carter & May are different
At Carter & May, we’re the leading estate agents in Salisbury and it’s surroundings. We have the expertise and detailed local knowledge to handle sales, purchases, lettings and rentals; plus our track record speaks for itself and we offer an unparalleled personal service. With our HQ in Salisbury, we cover Amesbury, Fordingbridge, the New Forest, Ringwood and Alderholt.
If your property isn’t selling, we’ll offer clear advice as to why – and how to change that. If you’re with another agent and frustrated at the slow progress of your sale, talk to us; and benefit from 150 years’ combined estate agency experience.