The Three Top Reasons Your House Isn’t Selling
There may be several contributing factors as to why your house is not selling. Some of the more easily fixable ones include upgrading and improving the photographs you are using, and/or asking for transparent feedback from your estate agent. But we have found that for the most part, the following reasons are the top three contributors that are stopping your house from selling as quickly as you’d like.
Reason 1: You haven’t chosen the right estate agent for your property.
When you’re putting your house on the market, you want to keep costs low. It’s understandable with all of the additional costs that can build up, but don’t let your budget dictate the estate agency you use. If you have gone with the cheapest option, this could be your downfall. Cheap usually means that the agency is just starting out and/or they are not as skilled or experienced in the field as some of the more mainstream and well-known agencies. Either way, this will likely mean that they are not as competent at selling houses as those with a higher price tag. This doesn’t mean that you have to sign up to spend heaps on your chosen route to the market, it just means that you can’t let price be your only guide. Do your homework. Look into local agencies that seem to have a steady sales rate and a good reputation. Ask around for results, look for reputable testimonials and reviews against value for money, or pop into a few local agencies and chat with them to get a feel for how they might work for you. For even more confidence in your choice, you can even ask to see evidence of property sales they have made that are similar to your home. Finally, run with more than one estate agent. You can instruct two or more estate agencies that you feel would strive for a professional, speedy sale on your property.
Reason 2: Your Home Needs Some TLC!
The property market is hugely competitive. Remember, there will be many houses just like yours for buyers to view and consider. So, you have to be striving to beat the competition. This means presenting your home in the best way possible. Ensure that the photographs you are presenting through your agency or seller show your home in the best possible condition: clean, tidy and spacious. So, clear away clutter and make your home look welcoming and appealing to buyers. If you have a little extra time to play with before putting your house on the market, consider redecorating to ensure your home is hitting the mark. Most buyers, especially first-time buyers, will likely find a property appealing if the décor is clean, modern and neutral. This is because it allows them to see the home as a property with little or no work to make it look and feel their own. Even better, consider some home improvements on your property’s facilities by updating the wiring, windows or central heating. Consider a solid roof replacement if you have an old-style conservatory with a dilapidated roof. You will more than recuperate your investment when selling. The more energy-efficient the property, the more appealing it is in terms of long-term value and, therefore, the quicker the sale.
Reason 3: Your Price is Inaccurate.
Price is one of the most important factors when selling your home. It is especially important when you need a fast sale. This is because, while you would hope that yours is the most valuable on the market, the proof will be in the pudding, and you have to do your research before you settle on a listing price. It’s unlikely that your listing price will match the final sale unless you are selling at a bargain rate for a fixer-upper. If you have everything in place, ready to move and want the process to be simple, smooth and speedy, you need to list your house with a realistic and appealing price to buyers. Know the true market value of your property before you decide. To do this, ask for a survey from more than one property expert, and consider all the factors that contribute to the final value: improvements to the home’s interior, extensions or conversions, new fixtures and fittings, outdoor space and its quality, as well as the energy efficiency of the home. All of these elements will determine the value of your property and will stand you in better stead for deciding on the most realistic and appealing listing price you can.