According to Redfin, 91.8% of U.S. homeowners who have a mortgage have an interest rate below 6%. When sellers are scared to lose their low mortgage rates, it’s no wonder why homes are staying on the market for 30, 50, even 90 days at a time. No one wants to budge.

Obviously, this is bad news for real estate agents who are facing a slowdown in Q4 of 2023. In fact, according to NAR (via Fortune), total existing-home sales are projected to be the lowest since the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis. The combination of low inventory, high interest rates, and economic uncertainty is doing quite the number on agents looking to end the year strong.

But now is not the time for inaction. Quite the contrary, savvy real estate agents who can find ways to better market homes can win in these last months, as eager sellers become more desperate to make deals before the dead holiday season. With that in mind, here are seven tactics to help sell homes that have been on the market for 30 or more days.

1. Stage Homes w/ Aesthetic Trends

One of the most critical aspects of selling a home is its presentation to potential buyers. Your property needs to shine and stand out from the competition. If your home hasn’t sold in over a month, it might be time to reevaluate its staging.

For a new staging idea, follow aesthetic trends that appeal to buyers in your area. For example, in metro areas, “transitional style” furniture – a midpoint between traditional and modern styles – have increased in popularity and many buyers find this aesthetic desirable. Staging your listing with transitional style furniture is a great way to showcase the home in a fresh way that can attract more potential buyers.

source: hgtv

Of course, investing in professional staging services can be a game-changer, as experts can transform your home into a showpiece, increasing its appeal. Remember, first impressions are lasting, and a beautifully staged home can make all the difference in getting your property sold within that 30-day mark. According to a study by Professional Staging, professionally staged homes spent 73% less time on the market than non-staged ones. Sure, that may be like asking a dentist whether dental cleanings are effective, but odds are they know what they’re talking about.

2. Reduce the Listing Price, Fast

If your home has been sitting on the market for more than 30 days without any significant interest or offers, it’s time to consider a price adjustment. While it can be tough to lower your asking price, it’s a practical step to stimulate buyer interest and get your property sold.

In fact, waiting a month to reduce the price is usually too long. Most activity on a property will happen within the first 2-3 weeks. When inventory is low, as it is currently in 2023, reducing the listing price at two weeks is recommended.

We know the seller will not love this option. Reassure them that the goal is not to undersell the property but to align its price with the market reality. A competitive listing price can attract more potential buyers and increase the likelihood of receiving offers. Remind them that a property that lingers on the market with a high asking price can make potential buyers wary and lead to the impression that something might be wrong with the house.

3. Take Better Photos

No one steps foot in an open house without checking out pictures online first. If your home hasn’t sold, it’s possible that the quality of your listing photos is holding you back. Low-quality or unflattering images can deter potential buyers from even considering your property. Invest some time and, if necessary, money into improving your listing photos. 

If you haven’t on the first go around, hire a professional photographer with expertise in real estate photography. They possess the skills to capture your home’s best angles and lighting, ultimately enhancing the overall appeal of your property. They will also have experience touching up photos in post to enhance colors and contrast that can make all the difference.

Utilize natural light to your advantage by scheduling your photo shoot during the day and ensuring that curtains and blinds are open to maximize the inflow of light. And before taking any photographs, make sure to declutter and stage the home meticulously. A clean, organized, and inviting space will translate beautifully in pictures.

Finally, don’t forget to showcase the key features of your home in the photos, whether it’s a stunning fireplace, a beautiful backyard, or a spacious kitchen. Highlighting these aspects can significantly impact the overall appeal and attractiveness of your property to potential buyers or renters.

4. Save Money & Time with Virtual Staging 

Virtual staging can be a game-changing option. This involves digitally enhancing your listing photos to showcase your property’s potential in a cost-effective and flexible way. In a nutshell, you can digitally add stylish furniture and decor without breaking the bank.

Source: Redfin

This feature is especially beneficial for homes that are currently vacant, as it allows potential buyers to envision the space’s full potential, thereby enhancing its marketability. Moreover, virtual staging offers the advantage of personalized aesthetics, enabling you to customize the decor to cater to different tastes and preferences. This flexibility allows you to experiment with various styles, ensuring that the staging resonates with your target audience and maximizes its appeal.

However, it’s important to be transparent about the virtual staging in your listing. Make it clear that the photos are digitally staged to prevent any surprises during in-person showings. You must always include the unaltered photo along with the virtually staged image.

5. Enhance Curb Appeal

Again, first impressions matter, and your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers see. If your home hasn’t sold in over 30 days, it might be time to evaluate and enhance your curb appeal.

For example, investing in landscaping is crucial. Create an attractive and well-maintained front yard by trimming bushes, mowing the lawn, and adding colorful flowers or plants, which can significantly contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.

Ensure the exterior of the property is clean by power washing the driveway and siding, and cleaning the windows. Additionally, addressing external repairs and maintenance is vital. Fix any visible issues such as chipped paint, loose siding, or damaged fixtures. A well-maintained exterior suggests a well-cared-for property.

6. Partner With Zoom Casa to Sell in 10 Days

When all else fails, we can be your secret weapon. By collaborating with Zoom Casa, real estate agents can expedite the selling process, closing deals in as little as 10-15 days. And we’re not an iBuyer; we can offer cash for the full value of your property through Zoom Casa’s Forward program.

Not only does Forward provide sellers with a swift solution, but it also allows agents to move properties off their listings faster, while earning their full commission.

Zoom Casa has helped thousands of real estate agents close more deals with higher commissions. Learn how by talking with our team on a short introductory call.