While property sells at any time during the year, the spring/summer selling season is definitely the busiest time in the Roanoke Valley real estate market. But even in our market, which slightly favors sellers at the moment, selling a home can sometimes be a challenge.

Whether your home is already on the market or you're just getting started, these are four things that can cause your home sale to stall.

1. Unrealistic pricing

The top reason a home gets stuck on the market is overpricing. You know, pricing a home is a delicate task. As a listing agent, I want my client to get the very best deal possible, but I don't want to leave money on the table.

The best listing prices are backed by research: Are there other homes for sale in the neighborhood? How are they priced? How about some recent sales? Have you looked at those?

That's the research a Realtor does as part of a comparative market analysis, which should guide decisions about pricing. And if your home sits for 30 days or so with no traffic, it could be time to reconsider your price.

2. The home is showing poorly

Even an updated, beautiful home won't show well if it's cluttered, dirty or not staged properly. Depending on your budget, you might consider hiring a professional to stage your home. If you're on your own, remember: Less truly is more. Declutter and depersonalize. Give prospective buyers every opportunity to fall in love with your home.

Your Realtor sees homes and buyers every day and knows what's going to attract prospective buyers and what's going to send them running. If he or she tells you to cover your colorful custom paint job with neutral colors, listen. 

3. Bad listing photos

Online house hunting is more popular than ever, so pictures mean a lot. Professional photos are best. If those aren't in the budget, at least make sure the home is decluttered, clean and stage when you take the photos. Let in as much natural light as possible to give your photos that "light and airy" feel, and be sure not to leave out the home's best features.

4. Outstanding repairs

When your Realtor first does a walkthrough of your home, he or she will point out repairs and improvements that will increase the value of your home. If you don't have the budget or the will to make all the improvements, as your agent to help prioritize the ones that will have the most impact in your circumstances. That said, if you don't fix something and then get feedback that it's keeping buyers away, reconsider the repair.

If you're ready to jump into the busy spring market, contact me today so we can come up with a strategy for your home. Call me at 540-793-0442 or email me at rpayne@mkbrealtors.com.