In today’s fast-paced real estate market, every real estate agent and broker knows the frustration of a property that just won’t sell. A listing that sits too long can become stale, dissuading potential buyers and becoming a significant hurdle in your sales goals.
Don’t let your listings go stale! Check out our top tips for getting buyers to look at your listing again.
The Power of New Exterior Photos
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to revitalize a stale listing is by updating its exterior photos. Photos are often the first impression potential buyers have of a property, so it’s essential they capture the home’s best features in the best light.
Try Twilight Photography
Twilight photos can create a magical, inviting atmosphere, making the property stand out from the crowd. The warm, glowing lights combined with the fading natural light can highlight the home’s charm and appeal. “Using a Twilight image as the listing’s main photo averaged 76% more views than listings without the use of Twilight images” (Photoup, 2023)
Experiment with Different Angles
Sometimes, all it takes is a new perspective. Try capturing the property from various angles that were not explored before. This can highlight unique features and give buyers a fresh look at the home.
Incorporate Seasonal Changes
If your previous photos were taken in winter, consider updating them in the spring or summer. Lush greenery and blooming flowers can add vibrancy and make the property seem more inviting.
Lowering the Price Strategically
Price adjustments can be a powerful tool in your arsenal to attract new interest. However, this strategy requires careful consideration to ensure it benefits the sale rather than harms it.
Generate Buzz with Price Drops
A well-publicized price drop can reignite interest in a stale listing. Use your email list and social media channels to announce the new price, creating buzz and urgency among potential buyers.
Understand Market Comparables
Before adjusting the price, analyze comparable properties in the area. Ensure your price drop makes the property competitive without undervaluing it. This balance can attract more serious buyers.
Communicate the Value
When lowering the price, emphasize the value buyers are getting. Highlight any upgrades, unique features, or future potential that make the property a great deal at the new price.
Hosting an Open House
Open houses remain a valuable tool for drawing in potential buyers and generating interest, especially for properties that have been on the market for a while.
Attract Unrepresented Buyers
With the latest NAR settlement, open houses have become a key opportunity for unrepresented buyers. This is there opportunity to view your listing without a signed buyer agency agreement.
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
Make sure the property is well-staged and inviting. A clean, decluttered space with appealing decor can help buyers envision themselves living there, increasing their emotional connection to the home. Check out our Open House Checklist!
Promote Aggressively
Advertise the open house across all your channels—social media, local listings, email newsletters, and even traditional flyers. The more visibility, the higher the chances of attracting serious buyers.
Maximize Exposure by Posting Everywhere
Visibility is crucial for any property listing. The more places you post, the better the chances of reaching the right buyer.
Social Media Blitz
Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to share your listing. Create engaging posts with high-quality images and compelling descriptions to capture attention.
Utilize Real Estate Websites
Ensure your property is listed on all major real estate websites, including Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com. Each platform has its unique audience, maximizing your reach.
Local Online Groups
Join local Facebook groups or community forums where people discuss real estate. Posting your listing there can target individuals who are actively looking to buy in the area.
Engage with Niche Video Content
Videos offer a dynamic way to showcase properties and reach potential buyers in an engaging format. Creating targeted video content can significantly enhance your property’s appeal.
Create Reels and Shorts
Platforms like Instagram and YouTube allow you to create short, catchy videos that highlight the property’s best features. These quick snippets can grab attention and drive viewers to your full listing.
Target Specific Audiences
Identify the ideal buyer for the property and create content tailored to them. Whether it’s luxury buyers, investors, families, or first-time homebuyers, personalized messages can resonate more deeply.
Begin your videos with something like this “Investors looking for opportunity in ____, here is a ___ bed ___ bath listing you won’t want to miss…”
Showcase Unique Features
Use video tours to highlight aspects of the property that photos might not do justice. Walkthroughs, drone footage, and before-and-after shots can provide a comprehensive view that excites potential buyers.
Conclusion
Revitalizing a stale listing is a challenge, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely achievable. From updating exterior photos and adjusting the price to hosting engaging open houses and leveraging niche video content, these tactics can breathe new life into properties that have been sitting too long on the market. Remember, visibility and presentation are key—use every tool at your disposal to showcase the property’s unique value and attract the right buyers.
Ready to take your real estate game to the next level? Implement these strategies today and watch your stale listings transform into sold properties.