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If you listed your home and it’s taking longer to sell than you anticipated, you’re likely wondering why. What could some of the reasons be?
“Selling a home in today’s market can be frustrating, especially when things don’t move as quickly as expected. But remember, you’re not alone. Many sellers are navigating similar challenges,” says local Burlington Broker Clinton Howell.
He shares the most common issues keeping homes from selling in the current real estate market.
The first, he says, is overpricing. “Listing a home above market value discourages interest and limits visibility,” says the Broker. He suggests working with your agent to price competitively using a comparative market analysis (CMA). It’s also important to consider local trends, recent sales, and market shifts.
The second is poor first impressions. “Buyers make snap judgments,” he warns. “A cluttered, outdated, or unkempt home turns people away before they walk in.” This is why curb appeal and staging are so important. Clinton suggests sellers invest in basic landscaping, power washing, and professional staging or styling. Declutter, depersonalize, and add welcoming touches.
The third most common reason is unaddressed repairs or maintenance issues. “Leaky faucets, cracked tiles, and aging systems signal neglect and raise red flags,” he says. Complete those minor repairs and consider getting a pre-listing inspection done to catch hidden issues.
Number four is unattractive or dated interiors. Many buyers can’t see beyond current conditions to imagine what the space could look like, and, for them, a dated kitchen, worn carpets, or bold wall colours can overshadow a home’s potential. “Small upgrades go a long way,” says Clinton. “Fresh paint, modern light fixtures, new cabinet hardware, or even virtual staging can help buyers see the home’s full potential.”
The final reason is limited or poor marketing exposure. “If buyers aren’t seeing your home, it won’t sell. Ensure your agent is using high-quality photography, video, social media, and MLS optimization,” the Broker suggests.
Unique to this moment
Some of these selling challenges are timeless, he says. “Others are being heightened or newly created by today’s market conditions.”
Overpricing, for example, feels riskier now. “Even slightly overpriced homes are being ignored as buyers focus on affordability. Today’s buyers are sharper, more price-sensitive, and they are unwilling to overpay,” he says.
Your home’s online presence is also more crucial than ever. Most buyers start their search online and often skip listings that don’t “wow” within the first few seconds. Listings that have poor photos, no video, or weak descriptions simply don’t get clicks. “And in this market, no traffic means no offers,” says Clinton.
Buyers have definitely become more selective. Due to affordability pressures, fewer buyers are actively looking. That means only the most compelling homes are getting any traction. “Homes that would have sold quickly in a hot market are sitting, unless they show exceptional value and presentation,” he shares.
Today’s buyers also want a home that is move-in ready. Even minor flaws feel like major red flags. “With budgets tight and renovation costs high, few are willing to take on even small projects,” says the real estate agent.
Advice for sellers
Clinton’s advice for sellers who may be feeling discouraged? “Take a breath, the market is shifting, not broken. A slower sale doesn’t mean something is ‘wrong’ with your home. The market may simply be adjusting, and timing plays a big role.”
He suggests asking for honest feedback from showings and your agent. It’s also a good idea to revisit the data: review the feedback the home receives from any showings, reevaluate market trends, and look closely at comparable listings.
“When you re-evaluate pricing and presentation, a small change can unlock big interest,” he says. Start by reviewing the latest CMA to see if a price adjustment is needed. You’ll also want to refresh your listing photos, video, or description of the home in order to capture more attention online.
The Broker also counsels sellers to stay flexible and be willing to adapt. Since buyers today are selective, if your strategy isn’t working, be open to trying something new. “Know that every home can sell: it’s about the right price, timing, and presentation,” he says. “Selling a home is a process and sometimes the right buyer just hasn’t walked in yet.”
“The market isn’t broken, it’s evolving,” says Clinton. “What worked a year ago may not work today, but with a proactive approach, your home can still stand out. Strategy matters more than ever. The right pricing, presentation, and marketing can make all the difference. With the right guidance and mindset, your home will find its buyer, it just takes the right positioning—and a little patience.”
MAY 2025 update: Burlington
Broker Clinton Howell has helped hundreds of buyers purchase their dream home in Burlington, Waterdown, Ancaster and beyond, guiding them each step of the way.
To view the latest listings, visit RE/MAX Escarpment Realty or call 905-537-2246.
Watch Howell’s weekly real estate market updates on YouTube. You can also follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
