7 Things to Consider If Your Cheadle Home Is Not Selling

When you decide to move home, depending on the circumstances, there is usually great enthusiasm and excitement once the house has gone on the market. You sit back and wait for the expected rush and a quick sale. But what happens when the initial euphoria wears off? And four to six weeks in, the response has been very disappointing, with very viewings, if any, and no offers.

In our latest blog, we look to offer some invaluable insights into reviving the interest in your property and securing that much-desired sale. Selling a home in a challenging market requires a strategic approach, a degree of luck and a wide marketing mix. So, without further ado, let's look at seven essential considerations to turn the tide in your favour.

1. First Impressions Matter

The old adage holds true, especially in terms of property. Take a critical look at your property's curb appeal. Is the exterior inviting? Does it exude warmth and welcome? Enhancing your home's exterior aesthetics can significantly boost its appeal to potential buyers. Simple measures such as fresh paint, tidy landscaping, and a well-maintained entrance can work wonders in creating a lasting first impression.

2. Price Wisely

Ah, the elephant in the room! What is the right price for my home? Pricing too high can deter prospective buyers, while pricing too low may raise eyebrows and signal underlying issues. Conduct thorough research on comparable properties in your area and consult with your agent to determine a competitive yet realistic price point. Remember, a well-priced home is more likely to attract serious buyers. Once the initial six/eight-week honeymoon period is over, even reducing the price doesn’t have the same effect and a property is 33% less likely to sell. This is not the climate to be “testing” the market or we are in no rush to sell, so happy to sit and wait. That approach does more harm than good to your sale prospects.

3. Professional Photography

In today's digital age, striking visuals are paramount in capturing the attention of potential buyers. Invest in professional photography to showcase your home in the best possible light. High-quality images that highlight your property's key features can pique interest and entice viewers to schedule a viewing. If your home has been on the market for a while and the seasons have changed, has your agent updated the photos to reflect this? We literally saw a photo last week with the house covered in snow!

4. Maximize Exposure

Don't rely solely on traditional marketing methods to promote your property. If your agent is relying purely on the property portals, that is simply not enough in today’s market. You need an agent that harnesses the power of online platforms and social media to maximize exposure. Ensure your listing is featured on reputable property websites and leverage social media channels to reach a broader audience. A good, established high street agent will also have a database of seriously qualified buyers they are working with on a regular basis. A comprehensive marketing strategy can significantly broaden your property's visibility and attract more potential buyers.

5. Declutter and Depersonalize

When it comes to staging your home for sale, less is often more. Decluttering and depersonalizing your space can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the property. Remove personal items, excess furniture, and clutter to create a clean, neutral canvas that allows buyers to imagine the possibilities. A cluttered home looks smaller and that is not the impression you want to create on potential buyers.

6. Address Maintenance Issues

Are there lingering maintenance issues that may be deterring buyers? From leaky gutters and rickety fences to peeling paint, it's essential to address any visible flaws that could raise red flags during a viewing. Invest in necessary repairs and maintenance to present your home in the best possible condition.

7. Flexibility is Key

Finally, maintain a flexible approach when it comes to scheduling viewings and negotiating offers. Accommodating potential buyers' schedules and being open to reasonable offers can expedite the selling process and lead to a successful transaction. Remember, don’t get hung up on having unrealistic expectations. It’s not about what you achieve for your property – it is the differential between what you achieve and what you pay for your next home that matters. So, if you come down £10k to sell, but pay £10k less for the next property, what's the issue?

In conclusion, selling your home in a challenging market requires a combination of strategic planning, attention to detail, and a willingness to adapt. By implementing these seven essential considerations, you can enhance your property's appeal, generate more interest, and ultimately secure swifter sales. Remember, with the right approach and a dash of perseverance, your dream of selling your home can become a reality, not turn into a long-drawn-out nightmare.

Finally, if all else fails, consider switching agents. Remember, when a house goes on the market with another agent, it goes back to the top of the Rightmove search as new on the market. Sometimes, the first agent wasn’t the right fit for you, but doing nothing and the property will stagnate and go stale – very quickly! And given over 50% of properties sell with a second agent, the chances are it might work for you.

If you would like to arrange a free marketing consultation, without any obligation, we would love to pop out and have a chat with you, offer our advice and hopefully provide some useful tips to get you moving. Call Joe, Patrick or Maurice on 0161 428 3663, e-mail sales@mkiea.co.uk or why not pop into our office on Cheadle High Street for an informal chat. Alternative you can book an appointment online at a time to suit you by visiting our website Book a Free sales and marketing consultation