Want to know how to get more real estate listings in today’s challenging market? Start by understanding what is holding sellers back, and what you can do to ease their concerns. Many homeowners are hesitant to list right now because they fear having nowhere to go. The solution is giving them smart, strategic options that build confidence and create momentum.
Why Homeowners Are Hesitant to Sell
In a low-inventory market, homeowners often think, “Why would I sell now if I can’t find a home to move into?” This mindset keeps people stuck even when they want to move. You know the market better than anyone, and it is your job to help homeowners realize they are not as stuck as they think.
The key to getting more listings is showing potential sellers they have choices. You must become the agent who removes fear, builds trust, and empowers action.
The Agent’s Role: Provide Solutions and Build Confidence
Every conversation with a hesitant seller is a chance to educate, provide clarity, and move the needle. These seven options are designed to overcome seller objections in real estate and show homeowners they are in control of the process.
7 Seller Options That Help You Get More Listings
1. Rent Back or Lease Back
Let sellers know they can rent their own home back from the buyer for a period after closing. This gives them time to find their next home while cashing in on their current property. Most buyers today are flexible and motivated, many are willing to accommodate this.
2. Extend the Closing Date
Help homeowners understand they can negotiate a longer closing window. This creates more search time and lowers the pressure. Remind them that buyers are open to this kind of timeline in today’s competitive market.
3. Make the Sale Contingent on Finding a Home
You can write a contingency into the contract that makes the sale dependent on the seller securing a new home. This helps remove the fear of being left without a place to go.
4. Use One of Your Rental Properties
If you own rental or vacation properties, use them as short-term solutions. Let sellers move into one of your properties while they search for their next home. This strategy not only helps you get more listings but builds trust and loyalty.
5. Build Confidence in Your System
Show off your expertise. Let homeowners know how proactive you are in searching the MLS, networking with other agents, and uncovering off-market listings. Mention strategies like the “Yikes” letter and voicemail techniques shared on this creative voicemail podcast.
6. Buy It Yourself or Sell to an Investor
In rare cases, you can purchase the home yourself or present investor solutions. This is not for every deal, but it is a powerful option for the right situation. Agents like Treasure Davis have successfully used this approach and built income while closing listings.
7. Remind Them: They Can Always Say No
Let sellers know they are always in control. They can reject any offer that does not meet their needs. Reassuring them of this power makes them more likely to take the first step and list their home.
Common Questions About Getting More Listings
How do you convince homeowners to sell?
Start by listening to their concerns and then showing them the options that make a move feel safe. Offer practical solutions and position yourself as the agent who has a plan.
What are the best ways to get real estate listings today?
Provide value through education, strong listing presentations, and marketing tools that build trust. Show sellers how your strategy is different, and that they are never alone in the process.
What if homeowners are still not ready?
Stay consistent with follow-up. Provide market updates, invite them to local events, and nurture the relationship until the timing is right. The goal is to stay top-of-mind as the trusted expert.
Start Building Your Listing Inventory Today
Learning how to get more real estate listings starts with shifting the conversation. Give sellers confidence. Show them options. And follow through with outstanding service and systems.
Explore Tom Ferry’s real estate agent tools for marketing, lead generation, and seller strategy templates that help you list more homes.
Or if you want a step-by-step plan for growing your listing inventory, book a free real estate coaching consultation and let us help you level up your listing game.