If your home has been sitting on the market for weeks — or even months — without serious offers, it can be frustrating and financially stressful.
The good news? In most cases, the problem can be identified and fixed.
Here are six of the most common reasons why homes don’t sell and how to turn the situation around.
1. Overpricing
One of the most common reasons a home doesn’t sell is simple: the price is too high.
Many sellers hope to maximise profits by setting a higher asking price. While this is understandable, pricing above the market’s tolerance often backfires. Buyers today are well-informed — they can easily compare your property to similar homes online, and if yours is overpriced, they’ll simply move on.
Why this hurts your sale
- Reduces the number of interested buyers.
- Makes competing homes look more attractive.
- Can cause your listing to go “stale,” making buyers wonder if something is wrong with the property.
How to fix it
- Conduct a comparative market analysis (CMA) with your agent.
- Look at recent sales of similar homes in your area.
- Adjust your price to match current market conditions.
2. Poor Presentation and Staging
First impressions matter — a lot.
A home that looks cluttered, dark, or outdated can turn buyers away before they even consider making an offer.
Common staging mistakes
- Cluttered rooms and personal items on display.
- Poor lighting that makes rooms feel smaller.
- Worn or mismatched furniture.
How to fix it
- Declutter and depersonalise spaces.
- Use light, neutral colours to make rooms feel open.
- Consider professional staging — staged homes often sell faster and for a higher price.
3. Low-Quality Photos or Marketing
Your listing photos are the first thing buyers see online. Poor-quality images can make even the nicest home look unappealing.
Why this matters
- 97% of buyers search online first.
- Listings with professional photos can get up to 118% more views.
How to fix it
- Hire a professional real estate photographer.
- Include both interior and exterior shots.
- Consider adding a video tour or drone footage for unique appeal.
4. Limited Marketing Exposure
Even a great home won’t sell if buyers don’t know it’s available.
Some agents rely solely on listing portals, but in today’s competitive market, you need a multi-channel marketing approach.
Marketing strategies to boost exposure
- Listing on major property portals (Property24, Private Property, etc.).
- Social media marketing (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube).
- Email campaigns targeting active buyers.
- Hosting open houses and neighbourhood previews.
5. Property Condition Issues
Buyers are often looking for a move-in-ready home. If your property needs significant repairs or updates, it can scare off potential buyers or lead to low offers.
Examples
- Leaks, damp problems, or peeling paint.
- Outdated kitchens or bathrooms.
- Visible structural issues.
How to fix it
- Complete minor repairs before listing.
- Consider cost-effective updates like fresh paint, new light fixtures, or modern handles.
- Be transparent about bigger issues — and price accordingly.
6. The Wrong Agent or Selling Strategy
Not all estate agents use the same approach — and the wrong strategy can cost you time and money.
Signs your strategy may be the problem
- Poor communication or feedback after viewings.
- No clear marketing plan.
- Minimal online presence for your listing.
How to fix it
- Choose an agent with a strong local track record.
- Ask about their marketing plan before signing.
- Work with someone who understands pricing strategy and negotiation.
Quick Checklist: Why Isn’t My Home Selling?
- Is my asking price competitive?
- Are my photos high-quality?
- Is my home staged and presentable?
- Am I using multiple marketing channels?
- Are there visible repairs needed?
- Is my agent proactive and communicative?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long should a house take to sell in today’s market?
A: In Port Elizabeth and similar markets in 2025, a well-priced, well-marketed home can sell in 30–60 days. Overpriced homes can take much longer — or fail to sell at all.
Q: Should I lower my price if I’m not getting offers?
A: If you’ve had plenty of viewings but no offers, the market may be telling you the price is too high. Even a 3–5% reduction can attract new interest.
Q: Does professional staging really make a difference?
A: Yes. Staged homes often sell faster and for more money because they help buyers visualise the property as their own.
Key Takeaway
If your home isn’t selling, it’s almost always due to pricing, presentation, marketing, condition, or strategy — and often, it’s a combination of these factors. The sooner you identify the problem, the sooner you can adjust and attract the right buyers.
Quick Checklist: Why Isn’t My Home Selling?
- Is my asking price competitive?
- Are my photos high-quality?
- Is my home staged and presentable?
- Am I using multiple marketing channels?
- Are there visible repairs needed?
- Is my agent proactive and communicative?
