Selling a home isn’t always as simple as planting a sign in the yard and waiting for offers. Some properties fly off the market in days, while others sit for months — even in competitive neighborhoods. Realtors warn that many of the reasons homes don’t sell have less to do with the market and more to do with avoidable mistakes made by sellers.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median time on market for U.S. homes in 2023 was just 22 days. Yet thousands of listings dragged on for 90 days or longer, often requiring price cuts before they finally moved. So what holds a house back from selling? Below, we explore the top issues agents see again and again — along with practical fixes to get homes sold faster.
1. Overpricing the Home
Why it’s a problem: Price is the first thing buyers notice. Set it too high, and your home may not even appear in their search filters. Even if it does, most buyers will bypass an overpriced property in favor of better-value listings nearby.
Statistics: Zillow research shows that homes priced 10% above market value take 50% longer to sell. Nearly 60% of those end up with at least one price cut.
Example: A three-bedroom home in Denver listed for $525,000 sat unsold for 90 days. After two reductions down to $495,000 — closer to comparable homes — it went under contract within two weeks.
How to fix it: Price realistically from the start. Use recent comparable sales, not sentimental value, to set expectations. In hot markets, slightly underpricing can even spark a bidding war.
“Homes priced 10% above market value take 50% longer to sell.” – Zillow Research
2. Poor Curb Appeal
Why it’s a problem: Buyers often decide how they feel about a home before they step inside. If the yard is overgrown or the entryway is dingy, they may assume the interior is just as neglected.
Statistic: A study published by the University of Texas at Arlington found that homes with strong curb appeal sold for 7% more on average compared to similar homes with poor exteriors.
How to fix it: Freshen up landscaping, repaint the front door, replace worn hardware, and add seasonal flowers. Simple improvements can add thousands in perceived value.
“The first impression starts at the curb — buyers often decide within 8 seconds whether a home feels right.” – Realtor insight
For more inspiration, check out our guide on 7 tips to boost curb appeal — simple upgrades that can make a lasting impression on buyers.
3. Unpleasant Odors and Artificial Scents
Why it’s a problem: Strong plug-in air fresheners or scented candles may overwhelm buyers, making them suspicious you’re covering something up. Smell is an emotional trigger. Pet odors, cigarette smoke, or strong cooking smells can make buyers uncomfortable and unwilling to imagine living there.
How to fix it: Stick to fresh air, subtle natural scents, or fresh flowers. Cleanliness speaks louder than fragrance. Deep clean carpets and upholstery, repaint walls, and use ozone treatments if necessary. Avoid masking odors with heavy air fresheners — buyers often view that as a red flag.
Statistic: In a Realtor.com survey, 82% of buyers said unpleasant odors were the biggest turnoff when touring a home.
“Artificial scents often backfire — buyers assume sellers are hiding a bigger problem.” – Staging professionals report
“Over 80% of buyers say unpleasant odors are their top dealbreaker.” – Realtor.com survey
