Why Some Homes Sell Quickly – And Others Sit on the Market

A few years ago, it didn’t take much to sell a home. Low inventory meant properties flew off the market—often with multiple offers and above asking price. But that’s no longer the case. With housing inventory up nearly 20% from this time last year, selling a home today requires a different approach.

In Today’s Market, First Impressions Matter

Many of the homes currently listed aren’t new to the market—they’ve just been sitting. According to Realtor.com, the recent inventory growth is primarily due to active listings (homes that haven’t sold yet) rather than new listings. That means buyers have more options and higher expectations.

To stand out, your home needs to make a strong impression the moment it goes live. Pricing, presentation, and marketing are more important than ever.

Why Some Homes Linger While Others Sell

Here are some of the top reasons homes stall on the market, according to Redfin and HousingWire:

• Overpricing from the start
• Neglecting necessary repairs
• Poor staging or outdated decor
• Limited showing availability
• Unwillingness to negotiate
• Lackluster marketing or low-quality listing photos

In today’s market, these missteps can turn buyers away quickly—especially in the first few weeks when interest is highest.

The Key to Selling Fast? A Smart Strategy

Homes that are priced right and professionally marketed are still selling—and often faster than expected. But guesswork and outdated strategies won’t cut it. That’s where a trusted local real estate agent comes in.

As the National Association of Realtors notes, homes listed with an agent are far more likely to sell quickly. In fact, 53% of sellers who used an agent accepted an offer within one month of listing—compared to just 27% of those who went solo.

A good agent will:

• Recommend a competitive price based on local comps
• Advise on repairs and staging to make your home shine
• Launch a targeted marketing campaign that drives showings

Bottom Line

Yes, inventory is up—but that doesn’t mean your home has to sit. If you’re thinking of selling this fall, make sure you’re working with a knowledgeable agent who knows how to position your home for today’s market.

Ready to sell your Fort Worth home with confidence? Let’s chat. Whether you’re preparing to list or just weighing your options, I’m here to help every step of the way. Let's Chat