The most stressful part of selling a home is knowing how long it will take to find a buyer. The longer your home sits on the market, the more it costs in holding costs and lost opportunity. It’s also inconvenient as you cannot carry out other plans, such as moving to another area or purchasing a new home. Understanding the reasons leading to delays will significantly improve the chances of making a successful and timely sale. Here are five reasons why a house could stay longer in the market:
A Roof That’s Seen Better Days
A roof that’s falling apart or has issues such as missing shingles and leaks will turn off potential buyers. An old roof is a sign of neglect, and buyers will be less inclined to pay the asking price or even make an offer. Request experts such as Northeast Home to inspect the roof’s state, then recommend repairs or a replacement. A poor-quality roof also affects energy efficiency, leading to a lower energy score that affects the sale. Although it seems costly, repairing or replacing the roof ultimately pays off.
Outdated Kitchen and Bathrooms
Outdated bathrooms and kitchens are a huge turn-off. Buyers want to move into a space that looks and feels modern rather than one requiring extensive remodeling. Investing in small upgrades such as painting, refinishing, replacing cabinets, or upgrading the fixtures will go a long way. You don’t necessarily have to invest in high-end materials but make the improvements look contemporary and appealing.
Poor Curb Appeal
Neglecting the front yard means you don’t care about your property. It signifies other more serious issues, such as an outdated plumbing system and a worn-out roof. Maintain the curb appeal by mowing the lawn, trimming the trees and plants, and cleaning the gutters.
Clear the pathways, replace dull lighting fixtures, and repaint the door and windows. You can go the extra mile and install outdoor furniture, a patio, and a fireplace. The idea is to make the house look inviting from the outside to attract more potential buyers.
Clutter
Potential buyers want to picture themselves living in the space when they visit. Clutter makes it difficult for them to imagine themselves in the home and can also be a safety hazard. Remove all unnecessary items from the kitchen counters and any other visible surfaces. If you have too many furniture pieces, put some in storage. Decluttering also simplifies your move.
Poor Pricing
If buyers think the price is too high, they will move on to the next house. Conduct market research before pricing the property. Compare it to similar homes in the neighborhood, then set the price. Also, adequately market the home for buyers to know its features and other benefits. You can do this through social media, email campaigns, or agents.
Many factors can slow down the sale of a home. Putting yourself in the shoes of a potential buyer will enable you to discover and address the issues leading to a successful sale. Seek the opinion of professionals, especially when dealing with issues such as a leaking roof, faulty plumbing, or an outdated kitchen and bathroom. It will save you time and money in the long run.
