House Not Selling? Here’s What to Do When a Listing Won’t Sell
If your house is not selling, you are not alone. In today’s unpredictable real estate market, some listings sit longer than expected. Whether it is due to location, pricing, condition, or marketing strategy, it is frustrating when a home is not getting the attention it deserves. But there are actionable steps you can take to relaunch momentum and create demand. Let’s walk through what to do when a house will not sell and how to fix it fast.
Why Your House Is Not Selling
There are many reasons why a house is not selling. Common issues include overpricing, poor staging, limited marketing, or tough competition in the area. Even if the market is slow, homes that are priced and presented well still attract buyers. So, if your listing is not getting showings or offers, it is time to reassess your strategy.
Step One: Review Your Real Estate Listing Strategy
Before you make major changes, collect and evaluate all the data. Review your listing strategy and real estate marketing efforts, feedback from showings, agent comments, and performance analytics. Look at views, clicks, and how long buyers are staying on your virtual tours or listing pages. This homework will help you determine what is working and what is not.
Ask yourself:
- Is the price aligned with similar homes in the neighborhood?
- Are the photos and videos high quality?
- Has the home been staged to attract buyers?
- Are you using digital marketing tools like social media and email?
Option One: Upgrade and Raise the Price
While it may sound counterintuitive, sometimes raising the price can reset buyer perception. But you cannot just raise it, you have to add real value. That means investing in improvements, boosting curb appeal, deep cleaning, professional staging, and re-launching with a refreshed campaign. Pair that with a standout real estate listing presentation to impress both buyers and agents.
Option Two: Lower the Price to Spark a Bidding War
More often, the better option is to lower the price just below recent comps. This creates urgency and interest. Market the home as the best deal in the neighborhood and blast it across all your channels. Use messaging like:
“This is the lowest priced home in [Neighborhood Name], a rare opportunity for smart buyers.”
If done right, this strategy can drive multiple offers and reignite momentum.
How to Sell a House That Will Not Sell
If your house is not selling, try these proven tips:
- Hire a professional photographer and videographer
- Improve the home’s presentation through staging and cleaning
- Run a social media marketing campaign targeting local buyers
- Host an open house with local incentives
- Offer a buyer’s agent bonus
And most importantly, set expectations with your seller and educate them with data, not opinions.
Common Questions About a House Not Selling
What is the most common reason a house does not sell?
Price. If your home is not selling, chances are it is priced too high for the current market conditions.
Should I lower the price or make improvements?
That depends on your timeline and budget. Improvements may help justify your current price, but a lower price may sell faster.
Can a stale listing be saved?
Yes. With new pricing, refreshed marketing, and a clear plan, you can relaunch interest and sell successfully.
Next Steps to Get the Sale
Pick your strategy and act. Whether that means upgrading the home or reducing the price, do it with intention and energy. Reframe your messaging, relaunch your listing, and leverage tools that drive engagement.
Still feeling stuck? At Tom Ferry, we offer real estate coaching to help you navigate tough markets, sharpen your strategy, and close more deals. Get the guidance you need to get that house sold.
