Why Some Homes Sit on the Market Longer (And How to Avoid It)

You’ve likely seen the headlines: across the country, more homes are hitting the market. That’s great news for buyers—but it also means sellers are facing stiffer competition. With more inventory available, homes that don’t stand out are sitting longer than expected.

If you’re planning to sell, here are the most common culprits stalling sales—and how to avoid them:

1. Overpricing to “Leave Room for Negotiation”

It may seem smart to start high and plan to negotiate down, but today’s buyers are savvy. If your home is overpriced, many won’t even schedule a showing. Instead, they’ll move on to homes that are priced competitively from the start.

2. Skipping Professional Photography

First impressions happen online. Without high-quality, professional photos, your home won’t grab attention in those crucial first seconds. Dark, blurry, or poorly framed shots can cost you valuable traffic and potential offers.

3. Ignoring Small Repairs

That leaky faucet, chipped paint, or squeaky door may seem minor, but buyers often assume small issues are signs of bigger problems lurking beneath the surface. Addressing these repairs ahead of time shows your home is well cared for and move-in ready.

4. Not Prepping for the First Weekend

The first weekend on the market is critical. Momentum matters, and the goal is to attract as many buyers as possible right away. A strong debut can generate multiple offers, while a weak launch may leave your listing lingering.

In today’s competitive market, avoiding these mistakes can be the difference between a quick, top-dollar sale and weeks (or months) of frustration. If you’re thinking about selling, let’s connect—I’ll help you price smart, market effectively, and launch with impact so you can move forward with confidence.

Hey Inland Empire, I’m Candice Newman! I’ve had the incredible fortune of being born and raised in this amazing community, and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. I currently live in Alta Loma with my husband, Jonathan, our son, Trevor, and our dog, Ruger! I’m a real estate agent with a passion for finding new places to explore in the Foothill Communities. When I'm not selling homes, you can find me cheering my son on at his baseball games, exercising, spending time in our local mountains, heading to the lake, cooking, or watching the Dodgers slay the Giants (I was born and raised an Angels fan, but the Dodgers have taken over the household!). I'll never have enough Mexican food and Italian food in my life. I’m looking forward to connecting with you soon! See you around town! Candice.Newman.Realty@gmail.com | (909) 367-3280 DRE: 01924842