Selling a home can often feel like navigating a maze, especially for those who find their properties sitting on the market longer than expected. While there are various challenges that can get in the way of a successful sale, many of these can be avoided with the right guidance from an experienced property professional.
On average, a well-priced home in good condition should sell within three months or less in an active market. When properties remain unsold for more than six months, it often points to underlying problems, such as overpricing, needed repairs or poor marketing.
For homeowners feeling the pressure of a slow sale, here are some common mistakes and expert advice to help improve your chances of selling.
Overpricing
One of the most common mistakes sellers make is setting the price of the property too high. Overpricing can significantly reduce interest, turning away buyers whose budgets don’t match.
All that overestimated prices do is make correctly priced homes seem like bargain buys.
What you can do: Trust your agent’s guidance when determining a competitive price, particularly if a price drop is needed. Rather than making several small reductions, which can appear desperate, it’s often better to make one meaningful price cut to draw in new buyers who might not have considered the property before.
Property condition and presentation
Homes that are cluttered, poorly presented or in need of repair often fail to make a good first impression. Obvious issues like cracks or structural problems can be major turn-offs.
What you can do: Before putting your home on the market, make sure it’s clean, tidy and that essential repairs are taken care of. You don’t necessarily need to renovate, but presenting a neat, well-maintained space helps buyers imagine themselves living there.
Choosing the wrong estate agent
Not all estate agents offer the same level of service, and hiring someone who is unresponsive or lacks experience can work against you. If your agent doesn’t communicate well or fails to market your home properly, your chances of a quick sale drop significantly.
What you can do: Appoint a reputable estate agent with a proven track record in your area. It might seem counterintuitive, but giving an agent a sole mandate can actually motivate them to work harder. Unlike an open mandate, which can split attention and reduce urgency, a sole mandate creates a sense of responsibility and focus for a specific period.
Selling a home isn’t always easy, but with the right support and a clear strategy, the process can be far less stressful. By working with an experienced property professional, setting a realistic price and presenting your home in its best light, you’ll improve your chances of selling quickly and smoothly.