What Happens if You Can't Sell Your Home

by Cary Garcia 06/09/2019

It can be quite frustrating for a homeowner with a home on the market for an extended period that cannot find the right buyer. Because a lot goes into listing a house and many plans depend on the sale going through, there is an added pressure to get the process over with quickly.

Luckily, there are some things you can do if your home is staying too long on the market to make it more attractive to buyers. Below are some popular alternatives to take when confronted with issues like this:

1. Sell at a later date

While it might be possible to sell a home virtually in any market, it is as well possible that there are other beneficial periods to try to sell your home. For example, trying to sell a house in the winter isn't ideal as the weather makes it difficult for buyers to come to view the house.

2. Rent it out

If you have issues paying your mortgage, you should consider renting out your home. The rent sometimes may be above your mortgage depending on what you offer. Either way, it pays most of your mortgage and lets you manage your finances better.

3. Try a second mortgage

If you are selling your home because you need money, another option could be to take a second mortgage which will free up some of your home equity as cash for you to use for immediate financial needs. You may also seek a home equity line of credit which helps you to access available funds.

4. Lower your selling price

Reducing your selling price can be your last option when your home has been on the market for several months. A drop in selling price would make your home attractive to buyers who are looking to buy a bargain. The reduced asking price will also make it easier for your buyers to get a mortgage.

5. Change your real estate agent

Sometimes the market isn't the problem, but your real estate agent is. In cases where your agent is not experienced enough or distracted from the sale, you may consider switching to someone else to list the home when your contract ends. Find someone that has a marketing flair and can organize regular open houses for your property. This will help to put your home back to the forefront of the real estate market and increase your chances of selling it.

Bear in mind that timing is essential for real estate sales and while you may experience some delay, you can still help the process. Seek the advice of a property expert in re-marketing your home.

About the Author
Author

Cary Garcia

As a real estate broker licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., I work strictly by referral. For over 20 years, my success has hinged entirely on detailed, efficient service to clients like you.

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Finding a real estate agent is easy. Finding a skilled agent is the hardest…What separates me from other real estate agents is my extensive knowledge of contract law. You need an agent who understands the legality of the contract by enforcing the terms of the offer as well as all of the contingencies, addendums and disclosures. Before signing the offer, I will thoroughly explain the contract in detail, so you understand what you are committing to.I bring an expert’s perspective to help buyers and sellers make the right decisions. 

Because I understand the legal and highly emotional aspects associated with real estate transactions, I am able to provide expert guidance to help you make informed and educated decisions. In addition, I’m very skilled at project coordination. 

With so many people involved in the home sale process, I know how to create satisfying resolutions and make the process go as smoothly and successfully as possible.