You checked the comps and the price is right, but you’ve gone weeks without an offer. Time to face the facts: No one wants to buy your home. Here’s why.
For starters, your house might lack curb appeal. Real-estate agents are in agreement: If you can’t get buyers past the front yard, you’re not going to get them in the front door. Mulch the beds, wash the windows and clean the gutters.
Second, you might need to declutter. Buyers want to see your home’s potential, not your kid’s finger-painting. Remove personal items, from family photos to artwork on the fridge. Also, clear out closets and put excess furniture in storage. Your home will look more spacious.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Third – and no offense – your house might smell. Pet odors are bad, but agents say cigarette smoke is the worst. Fresh paint, fresh air and professional carpet cleaning will help.
See more reasons why your home is still on the market.
-
Stock Market Today: Dow Jumps 520 Points After Salesforce EarningsThe enterprise network software firm reported impressive Q3 results, sending the blue chip stock soaring.
-
Streaming May Become Less Overwhelming (and Less Expensive) Next Year
Streaming services: We’re about to enter the era of bundles, saving money in the process, study says.
-
5 Ways to Shop for a Low Mortgage Rate
Becoming a Homeowner Rates are high this year, but you can still find an affordable loan.
-
Does It Make Sense to Rent in Retirement?
Making Your Money Last Renting isn't right for all retirees, but it does offer flexibility and it frees up cash.
-
Hurricane Insurance Claims: 10 Things You Should Know
Becoming a Homeowner Hurricane damage? Know what’s covered, what isn’t, and how to make the most of your policy if you need to file a claim.
-
5 Great Places to Buy a Vacation Home
With remote work on the rise, more people are looking for a permanent getaway.
-
The 25 Cheapest Places to Live: U.S. Cities Edition
places to live Have a look at the cheapest places to live in America for city dwellers. Is one of the cheapest places to live in the U.S. right for you?
-
Retirees, A Healthy Condo Has a Flush Reserve Fund
Smart Buying Reserve funds for a third of homeowner and condo associations have insufficient cash, experts say. Here are some cautionary steps you should take.
-
Cash Home Buyers: New Services Offer Help Making All-Cash Offers
Becoming a Homeowner Some firms help home buyers make all-cash offers on homes. Weigh the fees before you sign on.
-
PODCAST: The 2022 Real Estate Market with Daniel Bortz
Becoming a Homeowner Daniel Bortz doesn’t just write about home sales and housing prices – he’s been in the business. He’ll share insights about the real estate outlook for 2022 and “how-to” tips for both buyers and sellers. Also, the pain of high gas prices.
