Pricing, presentation, marketing, and negotiation all matter. Learn what to change when your house doesn’t sell.

Your House Didn’t Sell. What Now?

January 01, 20263 min read

Your House Didn’t Sell. What Now?

When your house doesn’t sell, it’s more than just a missed transaction — it can feel deeply personal. You prepared for the next chapter, shared the news with friends and family, and pictured what life would look like after the move. Then the listing expired, and everything stalled.

If this happened to you, take a breath. An unsold listing doesn’t mean your home can’t sell. In many cases, it simply means the strategy needs to change.

In fact, research from REDX shows that 54% of homeowners who relist with a new agent go on to sell, compared to just 36% who relist with the same one. That tells us something important: results often come down to the plan — not the property.

Let’s look at what may have held your sale back and how a fresh approach can help.

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1. The Price Was Working Against You

Many sellers are still trying to match prices from the ultra-competitive 2021 market. Today’s buyers are far more selective, and even slight overpricing can cause a home to be overlooked.

Once a listing sits too long, momentum fades — and buyers start to wonder why.

The fix: A fresh, data-driven pricing strategy based on current neighborhood activity. According to HousingWire, many successful sellers only needed about a 4% price adjustment to attract serious buyers. Often, small changes make a big difference.


2. The Home Didn’t Show at Its Best

First impressions matter more than ever. If listing photos didn’t stand out, the home wasn’t staged, or small maintenance issues were overlooked, buyers may have scrolled past without booking a showing.

The fix: A walkthrough with fresh eyes. Simple updates like new paint, improved lighting, minor repairs, landscaping, and professional photography can completely change how buyers respond to your home.


3. The Right Buyers Never Saw It

If your home didn’t sell, exposure may have been part of the problem. Today’s buyers aren’t found through generic flyers alone — they’re reached through targeted digital marketing, strategic social media, video, and high-quality online presentation.

The fix: A comprehensive marketing plan that actively puts your home in front of the right audience. With the right pricing, presentation, and exposure, many homes sell faster the second time around — especially with a new strategy.


4. There Was Little Room to Negotiate

Flexibility matters in today’s market. If buyers felt there was no room to negotiate repairs, closing costs, or timing, they may have walked away.

The fix: A thoughtful negotiation strategy that keeps your bottom line in mind while helping buyers feel comfortable moving forward. With home values up nearly 50% over the past five years, many sellers have more room to work with than they realize.


Bottom Line

If your listing expired, you’re not stuck. You don’t need a new house — you need a new plan.

Same home. Different strategy. Completely different results.

If you’re ready to understand what held your sale back and how to get it right this time, I’d be happy to take a fresh look with you. A few strategic changes may be all it takes to get your move back on track.


Content Credit:
Adapted from insights by Keeping Current Matters, Inc.

The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Buyers and sellers should conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making real estate decisions.


I’m Heather Taylor, a Realtor® with RE/MAX One in Annapolis, Maryland, proudly serving buyers and sellers throughout Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties — including Annapolis, Crofton, Gambrills, Odenton, Davidsonville, Crownsville, Severn, Severna Park, Glen Burnie, Pasadena, Bowie, and beyond.
Real estate is one of my greatest passions, and I dedicate the time, energy, and focus needed to ensure my clients always feel supported. My goal is to make every transaction as smooth and stress-free as possible while helping you achieve your real estate dreams.
My clients know me for my calm, responsive guidance, deep local knowledge, and the personalized care I bring to every step of the process. Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or making room to grow, I provide strategic, high-touch support tailored to your unique goals — never a one-size-fits-all approach.
Relocation

Downsizing with ease and confidence

Upsizing and move-up strategies for growing families

Heather Taylor, GRI

I’m Heather Taylor, a Realtor® with RE/MAX One in Annapolis, Maryland, proudly serving buyers and sellers throughout Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties — including Annapolis, Crofton, Gambrills, Odenton, Davidsonville, Crownsville, Severn, Severna Park, Glen Burnie, Pasadena, Bowie, and beyond. Real estate is one of my greatest passions, and I dedicate the time, energy, and focus needed to ensure my clients always feel supported. My goal is to make every transaction as smooth and stress-free as possible while helping you achieve your real estate dreams. My clients know me for my calm, responsive guidance, deep local knowledge, and the personalized care I bring to every step of the process. Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or making room to grow, I provide strategic, high-touch support tailored to your unique goals — never a one-size-fits-all approach. Relocation Downsizing with ease and confidence Upsizing and move-up strategies for growing families

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