Selling your house can be a tricky process, filled with ups and downs, and it’s completely normal to feel worried when things don’t go as planned. This is especially true if the property isn’t selling within your desired timeframe. You can be left feeling anxious and wondering if your home will sell at all. But don’t despair because this guide has everything to help you understand when to actually start worrying and what steps you can take to turn things around for a satisfying conclusion.
Understanding the selling process: normal timelines and market conditions
The first thing to remember is that selling a house isn’t an overnight process. It requires patience and a good understanding of the property market. On average, it can take a couple of months to sell a home in the UK, and that’s under optimal circumstances. These figures, however, are just averages and can vary greatly.
Several factors can influence the timeline, each with a unique impact. Market conditions, for instance, play a substantial role. In a seller’s market, where demand is high, and supply is low, you may be able to find a buyer more quickly. Conversely, in a buyer’s market, where supply exceeds demand, it may take longer to secure a deal.
The location of your property is another consideration. Homes in popular or up-and-coming areas tend to sell faster than those in less sought-after areas. Similarly, the condition of your property can significantly affect its appeal. A well-maintained, updated house is likely to attract buyers faster than one that needs significant work.
Then there’s the price you’ve set for your property, which can either attract or deter potential buyers. An overpriced home could sit on the market for a long time, while a competitively priced house may spark bidding wars and sell.
When to start worrying: signs that your house isn’t selling
So, when should you start worrying? There are a few signs that might suggest your house isn’t selling as it should. Here are some of the key indicators to look out for.
Not enough viewings
A lack of viewings can be a cause for concern. If few people are showing interest in even viewing your property, it could suggest that something about the listing isn’t attracting potential buyers. This could be due to a range of factors, such as poor-quality photos, missing information, an unappealing description or being overpriced.
No offers
If you’re getting viewings but no offers, this could also be a sign of an issue. It may indicate that while your listing is appealing, something about the property itself isn’t meeting buyers’ expectations.
Negative feedback
Negative feedback about the price or condition of your property is another warning sign. If potential buyers consistently comment that your home is overpriced or they’re put off by the amount of work needed, it’s worth taking their feedback on board.
Too much time on the market
A property that’s been listed on the market for several months without any serious interest could be a signal that something needs to change. Whether it’s the price, the presentation or the way it’s being marketed, try to identify and address the issue to get the sale moving.
Selling a house is a process, and sometimes it takes time to find the right buyer. But if these signs are present, it might be time to reassess and make some changes to boost your chances of a successful sale.
What to do if your house isn’t selling: practical steps
If your house isn’t selling, don’t panic. There are several steps you can take to improve the situation.
Consider the asking price
It may be time to reevaluate your asking price. Potential buyers could be put off because it’s too high compared to similar properties in your area. A quick look at recently sold homes in your neighbourhood can give you a good idea of what price your property should be marketed at.
Examine the property’s condition
Consider the condition of your property. A fresh coat of paint, a tidy garden or even just a thorough clean can sometimes make a big difference to the appeal of your home. Small improvements can give your house a fresh feel and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Utilise professional help
Professional help can be invaluable. If you’re selling privately, it might be time to engage a real estate agent. Their expertise and contacts can potentially speed up the selling process. If you’re already working with an agent but aren’t happy with their performance, you might want to consider switching or engaging an additional agent. Look for an agent with a strong track record in your area and who you feel understands your needs and expectations.
Each property is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. The key is to keep evaluating your strategy and be willing to make changes where necessary.
Alternative option: selling to a property-buying company
If you’re feeling frustrated and want a quicker solution, you should consider selling to a property-buying company. Here at Property Rescue, we offer a fast, hassle-free sale without the need for viewings or negotiations.
With nearly 20 years of experience, our team offers a seamless process and a guaranteed sale, so you don’t need to worry about many of the traditional aspects of selling a home. We can buy your house regardless of its condition, providing you with a fair offer swiftly.
You can sell your house fast, whatever your reason. We also take care of the costs involved, meaning you don’t pay agent fees, EPC or even legal fees if you use our solicitors. Whether your house is in pristine condition or needs a bit of work, we can step in and complete the sale, offering you a quick and reliable solution.
Take the stress out of selling
Selling a house can be a stressful experience, especially if things aren’t going as planned. But remember, there are always options available to you. Whether that’s reassessing your selling strategy, making improvements to your property or considering a different route like a property-buying company, you’re not stuck.
If you’re interested in exploring the option of a fast, guaranteed sale, we’re here to help. Feel free to get in touch with us at Property Rescue for more information or a free, no-obligation quote.