Some listings simply don’t receive a lot of traction from clients – there isn’t any definite answer as to why this happens, but sure enough, there’s always that one listing in which clients don’t seem to be taking the bait. While this is indeed frustrating, there are some ways that may help in speeding the process up a bit:

1. Communication is key.

We have said this before and we will say it again: communication is an imperative part of the listing process. As a real estate professional, it is your job to call leads and to follow-up with interested takers. Without a consistent form of communication, a client’s interest may dwindle. It is also important to update CMAs for listings as needed throughout the process, and (if possible) some agents and brokers will even opt to create special incentives for open houses and showings if a listing still isn’t making progress.

2. Clients DO judge a book by its cover.

Listing images should always be professional and updated. If possible, hire a photographer to do your listing photos, but at the very least, make sure that they are bright and in focus. Dark or blurry photos do not bode well for the fate of a sale. Neither do outdated pictures, such as pictures that are out of season – clients do not want to look at a home with a snowy yard if they are looking to buy in the summer.

You should also make sure that the contents of the pictures are spread out – for example, if a client sees six pictures in a row of the exterior of the home before they are able to see the interior, they may lose interest. Many listings will start with a picture of the exterior and then focus on the main parts of the home, such as the kitchen, living room, bedrooms, and bathrooms.

3. Problems won’t fix themselves.

If appliances are out-of-date or landscaping looks as if it is deteriorating, clients will take notice. In many cases, buyers will opt out of a deal if they see problems such as these, because a lot of people will not wish to take the time to fix even minor issues when they are already in the stressful process of buying a home. It is important to make sure that sellers are doing their part by keeping the home as pristine and updated as possible throughout the selling process, in order to heighten the chances of making a sale.