Getting a Home Sold in a Challenging Market: The Power of Pre-Listing Activities

The real estate market isn’t always easy, and in a shifting landscape, selling a home can feel even more challenging—especially if the property has hurdles like location or condition. However, the right pre-listing activities can make all the difference. By strategically preparing a home for market and executing a strong launch, sellers can significantly increase their chances of a quick and successful sale.

Highlight the Positives & Answer Buyer Questions in Advance

Buyers are more likely to act on a home when they have all the information upfront. One of the best ways to reduce objections and hesitation is to proactively answer their questions before they even ask. This includes:

• Providing utility costs to help buyers understand affordability.

• Offering full disclosures from the beginning to build trust and confidence.

• Creating a detailed property website that includes everything a buyer (or their agent) would want to know, including buyer agent compensation.

Strategic Pre-Advertising & Exposure

Marketing a home begins well before it officially hits the MLS. A well-executed pre-listing strategy ensures a strong launch and maximum exposure:

• Utilize the “Coming Soon” period (within board/MLS guidelines) to build interest.

• Schedule open houses in advance to ensure buyer accessibility.

• Place high-quality flyers in the home and a sign with a QR code linking directly to the property website.

• Ensure the home is easy to show with a flexible schedule.

Showcasing the Home’s Best Features

A well-presented home will always attract more attention. In addition to staging and deep cleaning, providing buyers with detailed information about the home’s best features makes a big impact:

• A printed list of recent upgrades and improvements.

• A “Seller’s Favorite Features” sheet to highlight unique aspects of the home.

• Loan program options, with a flyer explaining financing possibilities to help more buyers see how they can purchase the property.

Amplify Online & Social Media Presence

With most buyers starting their home search online, digital marketing is non-negotiable. A strong online strategy includes:

• Running a Facebook advertisement the same day the home goes live.

• Posting to Facebook Marketplace for additional exposure.

• Advertising open houses at least 3-4 days in advance within a 25-mile radius to maximize views and interest.

Homeowners Play a Key Role

Pricing the home correctly is just as important as marketing and presentation. Overpricing can lead to extended time on the market and price reductions, while pricing at market value attracts more serious buyers and increases the chances of multiple offers. While an agent’s marketing and strategy are essential, sellers must also do their part. Ensuring the home is clean, staged, and in the best possible condition will significantly improve the chances of a quick sale.

Success in Action

Recently, I implemented these strategies and successfully sold a listing with a full-price offer on the first day of showings—while comparable homes in the area had been sitting on the market for over 90 days. The difference? A comprehensive pre-listing plan that left no detail unchecked.

The Bottom Line

In today’s market, selling a home requires more than just putting up a sign and waiting for buyers to come. A well-planned pre-listing strategy ensures a property stands out, attracts the right buyers, and sells faster—even in a difficult market. By combining strategic marketing, full disclosure, and proper home preparation, sellers can set themselves up for success from day one.

If you’re looking to sell, working with an experienced agent who understands how to navigate these challenges can make all the difference. Preparation is key, and the right approach can turn a tough market into an opportunity for success!

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