March 2, 2023

My Home Didn’t Sell! Now What?

When it comes to listing their home, most home sellers want three things:

  1. to make a lot of money,
  2. to put in minimal time and effort, and
  3. to sell quickly.


But the reality is, selling a home is rarely that simple. And homeowners who try to do it themselves—or receive bad advice—can end up stuck (months later) with a property that hasn’t sold.

 

If that’s you, don’t panic! We’ve outlined the top five reasons a home doesn’t sell—and action steps you can take to overcome each of these issues.

 

Not sure why your property didn’t sell? If you’re not already working with an agent or your listing has expired or been withdrawn, give us a call! We’d be happy to offer a free, no-obligation assessment and create an action plan to get your home SOLD. 


This marketing piece is not intended as a solicitation for properties currently in an exclusive agreement with another Broker.

1. BAD TIMING

If your home didn’t sell after several months on the market, timing could’ve been a factor. Markets are driven by the law of supply and demand, and real estate is no exception.

 

When there are a lot of people who want to buy homes (demand) and a shortage of inventory (supply), it’s considered a seller’s market. During a seller’s market, listings tend to get snapped up quickly. In a buyer’s market, however, there are more homes for sale than active buyers. This can cause homes to sell for less money and to sit on the market for a longer period of time before receiving an offer.

 

What causes the shift between a seller’s market and a buyer’s market? Economic factors like interest rates, affordability, domestic growth, and the unemployment rate can all impact buyer demand. Over the past year, for example, higher mortgage rates have not only made it harder for some borrowers to qualify for a home loan, they have also sharply pushed up homebuyers' anticipated monthly payments.1 So even if a buyer was interested in your home, they may have passed on it if they couldn’t qualify for a mortgage at your asking price.

 

Seasonal factors like weather, holidays, and school schedules can also increase or dampen the activity and motivation of buyers. Additionally, unexpected events, such as a natural disaster or a stock market crash, can cause some buyers to put their purchasing plans on hold until conditions normalize.

 

Now What?

If timing does appear to be a factor, it may be advisable to delay relisting your property. Of course, that’s not feasible (or desirable) for every seller.

 

In most cases, buyers can be motivated to act with a combination of improvements, incentives, and pricing. Where there’s a will to sell, there’s usually a way. Fortunately for sellers, people will always need a place to live, and there will be a percentage of the population that is motivated to buy quickly.

 

If you suspect timing played a role in your inability to sell, consult with a knowledgeable real estate agent. We’re in the field every day and have access to the latest market data. We can estimate how long a home like yours should take to sell given current market conditions and help ensure that your asking price is competitive.

2. INEFFECTIVE MARKETING

Did your home get a steady stream of showings when it was on the market? If not, you may need to try a new promotional strategy.

 

Take a look at the listing description. Did it entice buyers to visit your property? A well-written description should be clear and compelling while highlighting your home’s most desirable features. Additionally, it should have utilized best practices for search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure that it was found by buyers who were looking for homes online.

 

And how well did the listing photos showcase your property? Many buyers use photos of a home to decide whether or not to visit it in person. In fact, 85% of buyers who browse online find photos “very useful” in their home search.2 Poor quality or a low quantity of listing photos could have kept potential buyers from stepping through your door.

 

Another factor to consider is whether your listing reached the right audience. This can be especially important if you have a unique or highly-customized home. The Multiple Listing Service is a great place to start, but some properties require a more robust marketing approach.

 

Now What?

If you suspect ineffective marketing, consider turning to a skilled professional with a proven approach. We employ a strategic Property Marketing Plan that uses the latest technologies to seed the marketplace, optimize for search engine placement, and position your home for the best possible impression right out of the gate.

 

For example, we know what buyers in this market want and can craft a persuasive description to pique their interest. And since good listing photos are so crucial, we work with the top local photographers to ensure each shot is staged to your home’s advantage.

 

We also know how to get your listing in front of the right audience—one that will appreciate its unique features. By utilizing online and social marketing platforms to connect with consumers and offline channels to connect with local real estate agents, your property gets maximum exposure to your target market.

 

Want to learn more about our multi-step marketing strategy? Reach out for a copy of our complete Property Marketing Plan.


3. POOR IMPRESSION

If your property received a lot of foot traffic but no offers, you may need to examine the impression you made on buyers who visited your property.

 

Start with your home’s structure and systems. Are there large cracks in the foundation? How about doors and windows that don’t properly close? Are there water stains on the walls or ceiling that could signal a leak? These can be major “red flags” that scare away buyers.

 

Next, examine your curb appeal. Does the yard need mowing or do the hedges need trimming? Are there oil stains on the driveway? Any peeling paint or rotted siding? If your home’s exterior looks neglected, buyers may assume the entire house has been poorly maintained.

 

Now move on to the interior of your home. Is it clean? Is there a noticeable odor? Have you taken the time to depersonalize and declutter each room? Buyers need to be able to picture their items in your home, but that’s difficult to do amongst your family photos and personal collections. And oversized furniture and packed closets can make a space seem small and cramped.

 

Now What?

When we take on a new listing, we always walk through it with the homeowner and point out any repairs, updates, or decluttering that should be done to maximize its sales potential. We also share tips on how to prep the property before each showing.

 

In some cases, we will recommend that you utilize staging techniques to highlight your home’s best features and help buyers envision themselves living in the space. Home staging is one of the hottest trends in real estate—because it works! According to the Real Estate Staging Association, professionally-staged homes sell, on average, 9 days faster and for $40,000 over list price.3 In addition, the National Association of Realtors suggests that staging can help push up your final sale price by as much as 20%.4

 

Some sellers choose to hire a professional home stager, while others opt to do it themselves, using guidance from their agent. We can help you determine the appropriate budget and effort required to get your home sold.

4. PRICE IS TOO HIGH

Many homeowners are reluctant to drop their listing price. But the reality is, buyers may not seriously consider your property if they think your home is overpriced.

 

Attitudes have changed since the Federal Reserve started hiking interest rates. Many of today's homebuyers are no longer willing or able to pay as high a price on a new home as they might have when borrowing costs were lower.5 If your home’s original asking price was set using sales data from the market's peak, then you may need to rethink your pricing strategy.

 

Economic factors aren't the only reasons, though, why a home's asking price might not match its market value. Pricing a home can be tricky, regardless of the economic climate, because so many factors can impact how much buyers are willing to pay. For example, unique, highly customized, and luxury properties are particularly difficult to price because there aren’t a lot of comparable homes with which to compare them.

 

Regardless, if your home sat on the market for months without an offer, then chances are good that your asking price needs to be reevaluated.

 

Now What?

If you aren’t in a rush to sell your home, adjustments to timing or marketing may bring in a new pool of potential buyers. And repairs, upgrades, and staging can increase the perceived value of your home, which may be enough to bring a buyer to the table at your original list price.

 

However, if you need to sell quickly, or you’ve already exhausted those options, a price reduction may be necessary to get your home the attention it needs to sell.

 

We are local market experts and have access to the latest market data and comparable sales in your neighborhood. We can help you determine a realistic asking price for your home given today’s market conditions. Just reach out for a free home value assessment!

5. YOU HIRED THE WRONG AGENT (OR WORSE, NO AGENT AT ALL)

If you suspect that your previous real estate agent didn’t do enough—or used the wrong approach—to sell your home, you’re not alone. Many sellers whose listings languish until they expire or are withdrawn feel this way.

 

While most agents have the best of intentions, not all of them have the skills, experience, instincts, or local market expertise to devise a winning sales strategy in this challenging market.

 

Or, perhaps you chose not to hire a listing agent at all and have been trying to sell your home yourself. This can be an equally frustrating endeavor.

 

Although selling your home independently can help cut some costs, it can also be extremely risky and may even lose you money in the long run. For example, research by the National Association of Realtors suggests that For Sale By Owner (or FSBO) homes tend to sell for less than homes represented by a professional. In 2021, for example, the average FSBO home sold for $105,000 less than the average home sold with the assistance of an agent.

 

Now What?

If either of those scenarios sounds familiar, you need to ask yourself: “Would I still be interested in selling my home if I could get the right offer?”

 

If so, we should talk. We understand how frustrating it can be when you’ve put a lot of time, money, and effort into prepping your property for the market and it doesn’t sell. We also empathize with how disruptive a delayed home sale can be to your life.

 

By now, don’t you owe yourself more than the status quo when it comes to your real estate representation? Our multi-step Property Marketing Plan can help you sell your home for the most money possible, and in the process reconnect you with the excitement you originally felt upon first listing. It’s time for a new agent, new marketing, new buyers, and most of all… new possibilities.

READY TO MAKE A MOVE? 

Let's talk. We can help you figure out why your home didn’t sell and how to revise your sales strategy and set your home up for success.

 

The housing market has experienced a shift and the waters may be choppier than usual for a while. But there's still plenty of opportunity in the current market: You just need a guide who knows where to look and how to find it.



This marketing piece is not intended as a solicitation for properties currently in an exclusive agreement with another Broker. The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.

 

Sources:

1. New York Times - https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/30/realestate/housing-market-prices-interest-rates.html

2. National Association of Realtors - https://store.realtor/2022-nar-profile-of-home-buyers-and-sellers-download/

3. Real Estate Staging Association - https://www.realestatestagingassociation.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=304550&module_id=164548

4. National Association of Realtors - https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/styled-staged-sold/why-staging-matters-even-in-a-sellers-market 

5. Marketplace - https://www.marketplace.org/2023/01/26/housing-slump-may-have-bottomed-out/

National Association of Realtors - https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/quick-real-estate-statistics

September 4, 2025
Real estate continues to dominate as America's favorite long-term investment strategy. For the 12th consecutive year, 37% of Americans consider real estate the top investment choice—nearly doubling stocks at just 16%. 1 This isn't just sentiment; investors are putting their money where their beliefs are, purchasing 13% of all homes sold in 2024. 2 The truth is, real estate offers unique advantages that traditional investments can't match. A rental property provides multiple income streams, delivering monthly rent payments while simultaneously building equity and appreciating in value. Plus, leverage amplifies returns: Even if you put down 20%, you’ll benefit from 100% of the property's appreciation gains. Tax advantages, such as depreciation and deductible expenses, can further boost profitability. 3 When executed wisely, rental properties can deliver steady cash flow today and significant wealth tomorrow. But success starts with preparation—knowing how rentals make money, who is best suited to invest, what to look for, and where to start. How Rental Properties Build Wealth Great rental properties create wealth through three primary channels that work together to compound returns over time: Cash Flow represents net monthly income after expenses. The formula: Total rent minus all expenses (mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, management fees, etc.). A duplex renting for $3,300 monthly with $2,700 in expenses generates $600 monthly positive cash flow—money for profit or reinvestment. Appreciation refers to property value increases over time. Historically, U.S. home prices have risen approximately 3-5% annually. 4 A 5% annual appreciation on a $300,000 house adds $15,000+ to your equity annually from market gains alone. Equity growth also occurs as mortgage payments reduce loan principal. Ideally, tenant rent effectively covers these payments, so tenants are purchasing the property for you incrementally. If $500 monthly goes toward principal, you gain $6,000 in equity annually. The total return combines all three elements. While individual components might not create overnight wealth, together they compound impressively for patient investors. Who Should Invest in Rentals? Rental property investing isn’t for everyone. The most successful investors tend to share a few traits: Long-term wealth builders with financial stability and risk tolerance typically succeed. Investment properties require substantial down payments (typically 20-30%) plus cash reserves for maintenance and vacancies. You need stable finances with emergency funds before investing, as real estate is illiquid. 5 Detail-oriented, patient investors often find the greatest success. Nearly 90% of real estate investors encounter challenges—bad tenants, unexpected repairs, or incorrect pricing. 6 Smart investors educate themselves and analyze numbers carefully before buying. Hands-on, resourceful owners who can handle basic maintenance, repairs, and tenant management themselves also have an advantage. These investors can save thousands each year on property management and service fees, boosting overall returns. If you align with these traits, rental property investing can be a powerful tool for building lasting wealth. Where to Begin Your Investment Journey The first step is to contact an investment-savvy real estate agent. We can be an invaluable partner in finding and securing great properties by offering: Access to off-market deals that you can’t find on your own. We have extensive networks and can sometimes help you uncover properties before they are publicly listed. Expert market knowledge to help you choose the right property. We know which neighborhoods, property types, and home features are the most desirable to renters in our area. Deal analysis assistance to maximize your returns. We can help you estimate cash flow, cap rates, and return on investment. Ongoing network support that extends beyond closing. We maintain networks of reliable contractors, property managers, investor-friendly lenders, and insurance brokers. With the right guidance from day one, you can move forward with confidence and start building a portfolio that works for you. Your Rental Property Evaluation Checklist Not all rental properties offer equal investment potential. Smart investors use systematic criteria to identify truly great opportunities: Location & Market Analysis Location determines everything—tenant quality, rental demand, and appreciation potential. Focus on areas with strong rental demand near employment centers, universities, or transit systems ensuring steady tenant pools. Research local vacancy rates carefully. High neighborhood vacancy signals low demand, while low vacancy allows rent increases. Investigate safety and school quality—properties in low-crime areas with good schools attract stable, long-term tenants. 5 Evaluate regional economic trends beyond immediate neighborhoods. Growing employment opportunities drive housing demand. Research major employers that are expanding but avoid areas dependent on single industries. Check government infrastructure plans—new transit or development projects can boost values, but excessive new development might increase competition. 5 Financial Analysis Perform detailed cash flow analysis for every potential property. Calculate expected rent and subtract all expenses: mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, management costs, maintenance reserves (budget 10% of rent), and vacancy allowances. The “1% rule” provides a quick assessment—monthly rent should equal at least 1% of purchase price plus any necessary repairs. Therefore, a $200,000 home should rent for at least $2,000 monthly. 5 Run sensitivity analysis: What happens if rents drop 5% or expenses increase 10%? Great properties remain profitable under various conditions. Property Condition & Carrying Costs Physical condition directly impacts returns. Older homes with outdated systems may require frequent, costly repairs. 7 Schedule professional inspections focusing on major components: roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Consider property layout—standard configurations like 3-bedroom/2-bathroom homes appeal to broader tenant bases than unusual layouts. Factor in capital expenditure timelines for major items needing replacement every 15-30 years. Research property tax rates and insurance costs carefully. Some areas have taxes so high that even nice properties won't generate profit. Get insurance quotes before purchasing, especially for properties in flood zones or disaster-prone areas requiring expensive additional coverage. Property Type Selection For most investors, single-family homes, condominiums, or townhomes offer the best starting point. Single-family homes typically attract longer-term tenants who treat the property as their home, resulting in steadier income. 5 Unless you’re planning to use your property as a short-term or vacation rental, avoid highly specialized properties like luxury mansions or tiny studios targeting niche markets with higher vacancy risks. “Bread and butter” 2-4 bedroom homes in middle-class neighborhoods form successful long-term rental portfolio foundations. 5 Due Diligence Requirements Verify all numbers independently. Research comparable rents for similar nearby properties ensuring realistic projections. 7 Check sales comparables to avoid overpaying. Schedule professional inspections and read reports thoroughly—unexpected problems can transform great deals into money pits. Understand local landlord-tenant laws covering eviction processes and deposit rules. Consult professionals, as needed, for valuable guidance. If this checklist seems overwhelming, don’t worry! We can help with each of these items. By following this checklist, we’ll separate high-performing rental opportunities from costly mistakes and position you for long-term success. BOTTOM LINE Great rental properties aren't found by chance—they're identified through systematic evaluation. Properties that build lasting wealth combine healthy cash flow, solid locations, sound physical condition, and strong growth potential. Success requires patience, proper analysis, and the right team. While markets fluctuate, well-chosen properties consistently reward investors through income, appreciation, and equity growth creating real wealth over time. Ready to start building wealth through rental property investment? The fundamentals we’ve outlined provide your foundation, but local market expertise and deal analysis make the difference between mediocre and exceptional investments. Let's discuss how these principles apply to current opportunities in your target market. Sources 1. Gallup - "Real Estate Still Best Investment" - https://news.gallup.com/poll/660161/stocks-fall-gold-rises-real-estate-best-investment.aspx 2. Realtor.com Research - "Investor Report June 2025" - https://www.realtor.com/research/investor-report-june-2025/ 3. Investopedia - "Real Estate vs. Stocks" - https://www.investopedia.com/investing/reasons-invest-real-estate-vs-stock-market/ 4. Redfin Blog - "Average home appreciation per year" - https://www.redfin.com/blog/average-home-appreciation-per-year/ 5. Investopedia - "10 Factors to Consider When Buying an Income Property" - https://www.investopedia.com/articles/mortgages-real-estate/08/buy-rental-property.asp 6. Clever Real Estate Survey - "Residential Real Estate Investing in 2024" - https://listwithclever.com/research/residential-real-estate-investing-2024/ 7. Investopedia - "5 Ways to Value a Real Estate Rental Property" - https://www.investopedia.com/articles/mortgages-real-estate/11/how-to-value-real-estate-rental.asp
August 6, 2025
As a homeowner, you’re likely diligent about the basics—mowing the lawn, touching up paint, and cleaning regularly. But what about the critical home maintenance tasks you don’t see every day? Research shows that home maintenance frequently takes a backseat, even with the best intentions. In fact, a recent survey found that 60% of homeowners have postponed necessary maintenance or repairs, while 40% admit to paying for a major home repair that could have been avoided with better upkeep. 1 Still, it’s not just about avoiding costly emergencies—it’s also about maximizing the return on your biggest investment. According to research by Thumbtack, homeowners who do put in the extra care are rewarded: Well-maintained homes sell for an average of 10% more. 2 Let’s explore 10 often overlooked home maintenance tasks and how they can save you thousands in long-term costs. 1. Gutter Cleaning: Your First Line of Protection Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into your home’s foundation, attic, or siding. Left unchecked, this can lead to foundation damage, rot, and even flooding. The real cost of neglect: While professional gutter cleaning averages $162 nationally (up to $390 for multi-story homes), water damage repair costs can add up—averaging $5,100 for foundation damage and $4,300 for a flooded basement. 3,4,5 Your action plan: Clean gutters at least twice annually—in spring and fall. Use a gutter scoop or hose to remove debris. Consider investing in gutter guards to reduce future clogs. This small task prevents major structural damage and prolongs the life of your home’s exterior. 2. HVAC Filter Replacement: Small Task, Major Impact A dirty HVAC filter reduces airflow, causes your system to work harder, and increases energy use. It can also lead to health concerns from trapped contaminants circulating in your home’s air. 6 The hidden costs: A neglected filter can lead to clamped-up coils, furnace failures, and sometimes a complete system replacement costing $4,000-$12,000. 6 Your maintenance routine: Replace filters every 1–3 months, depending on filter type, usage, and the number of pets in your home. Opt for MERV 8–13 filters for efficiency and air quality balance. 7 Schedule full-system annual servicing ($175–$550) to catch hidden issues early. 8 This simple task saves on energy bills (15-20% according to the Department of Energy) and extends your HVAC system’s lifespan. 8 3. Water Heater Flushing: Preventing Sediment Buildup Over time, sediment accumulates in your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and shortening the unit's lifespan. Left unchecked, this buildup can cause leaks or complete tank failure. The financial reality: Regular flushing prevents early replacement and may be required to maintain your water heater’s warranty. 9 You can do it yourself or hire a professional for around $160. 10 Your annual process: Turn off power and water supply to the unit Attach a hose to the drain valve and empty the tank completely Check your anode rod; it may need to be replaced every 3–5 years. This simple routine extends your water heater’s life and preserves energy efficiency. 4. Dryer Vent Cleaning: A Critical Safety Task Lint buildup in dryer vents doesn’t just reduce drying efficiency—it’s one of the leading causes of house fires in the U.S. 11 They also force your dryer to work harder and longer for each load. The cost factor: Professional dryer vent cleaning costs about $144 nationwide, while fire-related damage can run into the tens of thousands. 12 Your safety protocol: Clean dryer vents every six months using a brush kit, or call in a professional. Replace plastic ducts with rigid metal ones, which resist lint clogs. Monitor drying times—longer than usual may signal a blockage. This potentially life-saving task improves both safety and appliance efficiency. 5. Refrigerator Coil Cleaning: The 35% Energy Drain Your refrigerator’s coils help expel heat. When coated in dust, they force the compressor to work harder, increasing energy bills and shortening appliance lifespan. The efficiency impact: Dirty coils can increase energy use by up to 35% and, over time, can lead to costly repairs or replacement. 13 Your simple solution: Check your manufacturer’s guidelines; many recommend cleaning every six months. Locate coils behind or at the bottom of the unit and use a vacuum or coil brush to remove dust and debris. Keep condenser fan areas unobstructed. This $0 DIY task can trim your electricity bill—and prevent early breakdown. 6. Garage Door Lubrication: Prevents Costly Repairs A squeaky garage door means friction—and friction leads to wear on moving parts, costly spring damage, and failed openers. The mechanical reality: A new garage door opener can cost between $350-$1000 installed, but a can of lubricant only costs about $10. 14 Your annual routine: Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to choose the right lubricant for your garage door. Prioritize safety: Ensure the door is fully closed and cut the electricity. Check for any signs of damage before proceeding, and call in a pro if needed. 15 This simple task eliminates squeaks and avoids expensive mechanical repairs. 7. Sump Pump Testing: Your Basement's Guardian Your sump pump quietly protects your basement from water damage—but it needs testing to ensure it works when you need it most. The flood prevention factor: Sump pump failure during a storm can result in thousands of dollars in cleanup costs. 5 Your quarterly test: Pour water into the pit to ensure the float triggers the pump. Confirm pump and drainage are working correctly. Clean the inlet screen once per year to avoid clogs. This 10-minute check gives peace of mind and avoids major flood damage. 8. Chimney Cleaning: Preventing House Fires According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading cause of home heating fires (30%) is a dirty chimney. 16 The fire prevention imperative: Professional cleaning costs between $100-$350 and is crucial for anyone burning wood. 17 The cost of ignoring this task includes chimney repairs and fire damage that can devastate homes. Your annual safety check: Hire a certified chimney sweep for inspection and cleaning, if needed. Use only seasoned wood to reduce creosote buildup. Install a chimney cap to block debris and critters. Professional chimney maintenance is a non-negotiable safety investment. 9. Roof Inspection: Protecting Your Shelter Your roof endures a lot—storms, sun, pests—and while damage may start small, it can become unbelievably costly if ignored. The structural stakes: A professional inspection averages $239, but some roofers will offer one for free. 18 Roof repair costs have surged 28.47% year-over-year. 19 A new roof now costs $9,500 on average. 20 Your inspection process: Twice per year, perform a DIY inspection for missing shingles, cracked flashing, and sagging areas. Check your attic for stains or leaks after rainfall. Consider a professional inspection every 1-2 years, depending on your risk factors. 18 Early intervention prevents thousands in repairs and helps retain resale value. 10. Water Pressure Monitoring: Protecting Your Plumbing Many homeowners never check their home’s water pressure, but levels above 80 psi can damage pipes, appliances, and fixtures throughout your home, leading to premature failures and leaks. The pressure problem: Water pressure that’s too high can damage your pipes and lead to expensive repairs or flooding. Pressure that’s too low can impact the performance of your faucets and appliances. 21 Your annual check: Use a water pressure gauge connected to an outdoor faucet. Ideal pressure: 40-60 psi. Install a regulator if it runs high. Monitor for sudden changes that could signal a plumbing issue. 21 This small check helps you avoid hidden damage to your entire plumbing system. Creating Your Home Maintenance Schedule Rather than reacting to emergencies, create a proactive plan. Here's a maintenance chart that puts it all in one place:
July 1, 2025
As we reach the midpoint of 2025, the U.S. housing market stands at a critical juncture. The frenzy of the pandemic-era real estate boom has long since cooled, but in its place we’re seeing a market searching for balance. Higher mortgage rates, cautious buyers, and rising home inventory are combining to reshape what it means to buy or sell a home in today’s climate. “The housing market is at a turning point,” says Nadia Evangelou, senior economist and director of real estate research at the National Association of Realtors. 1 This turning point brings both challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping a close eye on the market, understanding these evolving trends is essential. In this comprehensive market update, we examine four key factors influencing today's housing market and provide actionable strategies for navigating these evolving conditions.