Why has my house sale gone quiet?

Why has my house sale gone quiet? What to do if you’re not getting any viewings

It can feel disheartening when you put your home on the market, expecting a steady stream of interest, only to find things are quieter than you hoped. If your phone is silent and your inbox empty, it’s easy to wonder if you’re doing something wrong. The truth is, a quiet period is something most sellers experience at some point. Understanding the reasons behind it and knowing what steps to take can help you get things moving again.

Understanding the quiet patch.

First of all, try not to take it personally. There are so many factors that can affect how quickly your home is noticed, from the time of year to what’s happening in the wider property market. If viewings have dried up, it’s worth taking a gentle, thoughtful approach rather than letting frustration take over.

Why your house sale might have gone quiet

1. The asking price

One of the most common reasons for a lack of interest is the price. Even a small difference compared to similar homes nearby can make buyers think twice. It’s always a good idea to have a chat with your agent about how your home is priced and to look at what else has sold recently in your area.

2. The way your home is presented and marketed online

Most buyers start their search online, and the way your home is shown can make all the difference. At AshdownJones, we believe that beautiful, high-quality photography is essential. We use professional photographers who capture every corner of your home in the best possible light, often including drone imagery for a unique perspective, styled lifestyle shots to help buyers imagine living there, and twilight photographs that highlight your property’s atmosphere. It’s not your responsibility to take these photos; your agent should handle this for you.

3. How widely your home is being promoted

Even the most stunning home needs to be seen by the right people. Your home should be featured on all Rightmove, as well as on your agent’s own website. At AshdownJones, we go a step further with bespoke brochures and poetic copywriting that tell the story of your home, often including interviews with you, the owner, to capture the real feeling and character of the place. This helps your home stand out and connects with buyers on a deeper level.

4. Timing and the season

The property market has its own rhythm. Some times of year are naturally busier than others. For example, families often look to move around the start of the school year, while others might wait until spring. If you launched your home during a quieter period, it might just be a question of waiting for things to pick up.

5. Feedback from viewings

If you’ve had a few viewings but no offers, feedback from buyers can be really helpful. Your agent should be gathering this feedback and sharing it with you, so you know what buyers are thinking and can make any small changes that might help.

What you can do to get things moving again

1. Have a chat with your agent about pricing

It’s always worth revisiting your asking price with your agent. Looking at recent sales and current listings can help you see if your price is in line with what’s happening in your area. Sometimes, a small adjustment is all it takes to spark new interest.

2. Make sure your home looks its best for viewings

While you’re not responsible for professional photography, you can help by making sure your home is tidy, decluttered, and welcoming for viewings. Small touches, like fresh flowers or a clean, bright space, can make a big difference.

3. Check your online listing

Ask your agent to show you how your home is presented online. At AshdownJones, we ensure every listing is visually stunning, with beautiful images, detailed floor plans, and engaging copy. If your agent isn’t doing this, it’s worth having a conversation about how your home is being shown to potential buyers.

4. Make sure your home is being promoted widely

Your agent should be using all available channels to get your home noticed. This includes featured listings on property portals, social media, and sometimes even local advertising. At AshdownJones, we create bespoke brochures and use poetic copywriting to tell your home’s story, making sure it stands out from the crowd.

5. Be flexible with viewings

Try to be as flexible as possible with viewing times. The easier it is for buyers to see your home, the more likely you are to find the right person.

6. Listen to feedback and make small changes

If you’ve had some viewings but no offers, ask your agent for feedback. Sometimes, a few small tweaks, like rearranging furniture or fixing a minor issue, can make all the difference.

7. Consider a fresh start

If your home has been on the market for a while and you’re not getting much interest, it might be worth taking it off the market for a short time and relaunching with a new approach. This can create a sense of excitement and bring your home to the attention of new buyers.

Practical steps for a successful relaunch

A relaunch isn’t just about changing your agent or price. It’s an opportunity to give your home a new beginning. Here are a few things to think about.

1. Pick a new launch date

Choose a time when the market is likely to be more active, like the start of the school year or early spring. Use this as a deadline to get any small jobs done around the house.

2. Work with your agent on new marketing materials

At AshdownJones, we create fresh marketing materials for every relaunch, including new photography, updated descriptions, and sometimes even video tours. We also craft bespoke brochures and poetic copywriting, often based on interviews with you, so buyers get a real sense of what it’s like to live in your home.

3. Think about who your ideal buyer is

Consider who is most likely to buy your home, such as families, first-time buyers or downsizers, and ask your agent to tailor the marketing to appeal to them.

4. Keep in touch with your agent

Stay in regular contact with your agent and ask for updates. A good agent will keep you informed and suggest new ideas to help your sale along.

Keeping your spirits up

Selling a home can be an emotional journey, especially when things are quiet. Try to stay positive and remember that the market can change quickly. Sometimes, all it takes is one buyer to fall in love with your home.

Every viewing is a chance to learn something new and make your home even more appealing. Use feedback constructively and be open to making small changes if needed.

When to think about changing agents

If you’ve tried all these steps and your home still isn’t getting much interest, it might be time to consider a new agent. Look for someone with a strong reputation in your area and a proactive approach to marketing. A fresh perspective can make a big difference.

In summary

A quiet period in your house sale is nothing to worry about. By working closely with your agent, making sure your home is presented beautifully, and being open to feedback, you can get things moving again. At AshdownJones, we believe in the power of beautiful photography, bespoke brochures, and poetic copywriting to help your home shine, and we always put the story of your home at the heart of everything we do. Stay patient, stay positive, and remember that your perfect buyer is out there.

Work with AshdownJones

If you’re thinking of selling your home or your home has been listed on the market for a while with little success, then give us a call on 015394 88811 or email us at team@ashdownjones.co.uk. We’d love to help you sell your home so you can begin the next chapter, whatever that means for you.