Why Only Around 55 Percent of Homes Sell and How To Beat the Odds
Not every home that goes on the market ends up sold and knowing why can be the difference between “listed” and “sold”.
It surprises a lot of homeowners to learn that only around 55 percent of homes that are listed go on to complete a sale. That number varies by area and by market conditions, but the wider point matters: a meaningful chunk of homes either withdraw or fall through before completion.
The good news is that the reasons are usually predictable and avoidable. Here is what we see most often, and how to stack the odds in your favour.
1) Accurate pricing is the foundation of a sale
Overpricing remains one of the biggest hurdles. Even modestly inflated asking prices can reduce viewings, slow momentum and invite heavy negotiation later.
Rather than relying on automated valuations, we use real local sold evidence and current buyer behaviour to recommend a price that attracts attention and activity from day one, instead of setting you up for reductions after weeks of silence.
2) Win the first impression online, then back it up on viewings
Most buyers start online and they decide whether to enquire in seconds. Listings with professional photography, clear floorplans and engaging descriptions win more clicks and more clicks turn into more viewings.
One big problem is that most agents still do not produce proper video for their listings, even though video is now one of the strongest drivers of online engagement.
Video helps a home stand out, builds trust, shows the flow of the layout, and gives buyers the confidence to book a viewing. Then, when people do come through the door, a clean, light and well presented home usually translates into stronger offers.
3) Availability matters. Be ready for viewers
Homes that are easy to view at short notice consistently create more interest. The market is more fluid than it was even six months ago, so timely access to your property can be decisive.
If viewings are hard to book, buyers do not wait. They simply move on.
4) Feedback led adjustments
We review feedback after every viewing. If buyers repeatedly mention price, presentation or layout concerns, we act quickly.
Sellers who are open to informed tweaks usually see far fewer stalled listings than sellers who ignore what the market is telling them.
5) Chain support and proper follow through
Sometimes sales fall apart after an offer is accepted because other parts of the chain break down, solicitors are slow, or communication drops.
We guide buyers and sellers through these moments, keep everyone moving, and stay on top of the key steps so the sale is pushed towards exchange rather than allowed to drift.
We are here to help
Selling your home should feel like a progression, not a waiting game. If you would like a clear roadmap to maximise your chance of selling and achieving the best possible price, get in touch and we will talk you through the smartest route to market for your home.
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07969 638349
duncan.kaye@keysandlee.co.uk
