Help! My Home Won't Sell! Staging, Pricing & Real Estate Tips
Why Won’t My Home Sell? Real Life Example to Understand How to Sell Your Home
Hey, it’s Kati! I've stepped into thousands of homes over the course of my career, and I've seen homes that just sit on the market. I know exactly why that happens. I'm excited about this episode because this one's fun for me. I love doing this. This is going to be a new series for us.
“Help! I can't get my home sold!”
If you are here because you can't get your home sold, this is the place to be because you are going to see a real-life example of a home that's been on the market for over a year. Now, if you have not started the process of selling, I am so glad you're here because I want to prepare you.
I do not want you to be in pain about why your home might not sell. Honestly, selling is not rocket science. You just need to prepare. So if you are here and you are wondering, "Gosh, why is my house not selling?" I've got everything you need right here.
Okay, so the first home I am going to show you has been on the market for over 900 days.
Case Study: The 900-Day Home
Yes, 900 days! How is that possible? I've seen a lot of homes like that. So I thought this would be a great example to show you and talk about. Why has this home been on the market for so long?
The Timeline and Pricing Journey
This home started on the market in February of 2022, listed at $584,500. Shortly after, it went off the market and then was relisted in July of 2023. The price has fluctuated—up to $610,000, down to $608,000, and around $599,000, $594,500, and now back at $584,500.
When a home sits on the market, the primary issue is usually the price being too high. But let’s look beyond just the price.
Analyzing the Visuals
The pictures aren't bad, but let's take a closer look:
1. Curb Appeal: The driveway has stains, and the garbage cans and clutter are visible. This gives an impression of deferred maintenance
2. Interior Colors: The house has dramatic paint colors—orange, green, and yellow. Buyers often prefer neutral colors that match their furniture. Bright or unusual colors suggest additional costs for repainting.
3. Kitchen: It has nice cherry floors and decent cabinets, but the refrigerator protrudes awkwardly. It’s important for major appliances to fit seamlessly within the space.
4. Staging: Rooms are cluttered or have mismatched decor. For example, in the bedroom, vibrant drapes and outdated light fixtures distract potential buyers.
5. Basement: Full of clutter. Buyers want to visualize the space, not be overwhelmed by someone else's belongings.
Key Issues
- Non-neutral Paint: Orange and green walls can deter buyers who want a move-in ready home.
- Deferred Maintenance: Stains, worn-out cabinets, and clutter suggest the home hasn't been well-maintained.
- Awkward Layouts: Unusual placements of furniture and appliances can make the home seem less functional.
- Price: Always a critical factor. If the home isn’t priced competitively, it will sit.
Solutions and Strategies
Here’s what you can do to avoid these pitfalls:
1. Neutralize the Space
Repaint in neutral tones. This makes the home feel move-in ready and broadens its appeal.
2. Improve Curb Appeal
Ensure the exterior looks inviting. Clean the driveway, store garbage cans out of sight, and tidy up the yard.
3. Fix Deferred Maintenance
Address any visible signs of neglect. This builds confidence in buyers that the home is well-cared for.
4. Professional Staging
Stage your home to highlight its potential. Remove personal items and clutter. Use modern, neutral furnishings.
5. Right Pricing
Price competitively. Research recent sales in your area, especially within your school district. Consider market trends and price your home to attract interest quickly.
Understanding the Market
When pricing your home, focus on recent sales within your school district. For example, the highest price in the past 12 months in our case study's school district was $620,000 for new construction. A similarly priced older home will struggle to compete.
The Final Verdict
For our case study home:
- Current Listing: $584,500
- Recommended Price: $500,000 to attract interest and potentially spark a bidding war.
Long-term Strategy
If you’re years away from selling, start preparing now. Regular maintenance, neutral decor, and strategic updates will position your home for a quick sale when the time comes.
Conclusion
Selling a home doesn't have to be painful. By understanding common pitfalls and preparing your home properly, you can avoid the trauma of a long market wait. For more detailed guidance, check out my updated seller's playbook linked below.
I hope this helps you get your home sold quickly and painlessly! If you have any questions or need personalized advice, feel free to reach out. Happy selling!
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