Why Is My Home Still on the Market After a Year? The Truth No One Tells You

Why Is My Home Still on the Market After a Year? The Truth No One Tells You

If your home has been on the market for a year (or close to it), you’re probably feeling frustrated, confused, and maybe even a little desperate. You’ve done everything right—staged your home, kept it spotless for viewings, and maybe even lowered the price—so why hasn’t it sold?

The truth is, there are some less obvious reasons why homes linger on the market, and they’re not always easy to spot. Let’s dive into the real reasons your home might still be for sale—and what you can do about it.

1. Your Home Has Become “Stale”

In the property world, there’s something called the “stale listing” effect. The longer your home sits on the market, the more buyers assume there’s something wrong with it—even if there isn’t. It’s like that last slice of pizza at a party: everyone assumes there’s a reason no one’s taken it yet.

What You Can Do:

• Refresh your listing with new photos, a snappier description, and even a virtual tour.

• Consider taking your home off the market for a short time and relisting it as a “new” property.

2. Your Price Isn’t Right

Pricing a home is a delicate balancing act. If your price is too high, buyers will scroll right past it. If it’s too low, they might assume there’s a catch. And if you’ve already reduced the price, buyers might wonder, “What’s wrong with it?”

What You Can Do:

• Get a fresh valuation from an experienced local agent who knows your market inside out.

• Look at recent sales in your area to see how your home compares.

3. Your Marketing Isn’t Working

Great marketing isn’t just about listing your home online—it’s about reaching the right buyers. If your agent isn’t actively promoting your property, hosting open days, or chasing feedback, your home could be flying under the radar.

What You Can Do:

• Ask your agent what they’re doing to market your home. Are they using social media, email campaigns, or targeted ads?

• Consider switching to an agent who’s proactive and knows how to get results.

4. Your Home Isn’t Showing Well

Buyers make snap decisions, and first impressions matter. If your home feels cluttered, outdated, or poorly maintained, it could be turning buyers off before they’ve even stepped inside.

What You Can Do:

• Declutter and depersonalise your space so buyers can imagine themselves living there.

• Invest in small upgrades, like a fresh coat of paint or new lighting, to make your home feel fresh and inviting.

5. Your Agent Isn’t the Right Fit

Let’s be honest: not all agents are created equal. If your agent isn’t communicating with you, chasing feedback, or actively marketing your home, it might be time for a change.

What You Can Do:

• Look for an agent with a proven track record in your area.

• Ask for testimonials from past clients to see how they’ve helped others in your position.

What’s Next?

If your home has been on the market for a year, it’s time to take action. Whether it’s refreshing your listing, adjusting your price, or switching agents, there are steps you can take to get your sale back on track.

And if you’re ready for a fresh approach, we’d love to help. We’ve helped plenty of homeowners sell their properties when others couldn’t. Let’s chat about how we can do the same for you.