I Can’t Sell My House

Staring at an unmoving “For Sale” sign can feel like watching your dream holiday fade with every passing day.

Selling a house can be a complicated process and unexpected delays can leave you feeling powerless.

While the average house sale in the UK takes 8-12 weeks to complete, it’s important to note that this doesn’t guarantee a sale within that time frame. Data suggests that over half (51.8%) of properties fail to sell within 10 months.

The actual time it takes to sell your house depends on some controllable factors like pricing, presentation, marketing strategy, as well as some external factors like; property chain length, location and market fluctuations.

We have written this guide to help you through this problematic period and hopefully identify some ways to speed up a struggling house sale. 

How long does it take to sell a house?

The time it takes to sell your house can vary, but in this section we will explain the typical time frame from offer to completion and the difference a chain can make. 

Generally, with the average completion time, you should expect 8-12 weeks to complete the sale after an offer is accepted. This timeframe can be affected by factors like the buyer’s finances, approvals, conveyancing processes and any unexpected issues. 

But, it could take anywhere from 1 week to 6 months to sell a house before an offer is accepted. If your property has been on the market for longer than 4 or 5 months, it’s important that you reevaluate your situation and think about alternative ways to sell.

Working with a skilled conveyancer and communicating openly with the buyer can help things move smoothly. Be prepared for some flexibility, as individual situations can cause delays.

How long does it take to sell a house in a property chain?

Being stuck in a complex chain of property sales can significantly slow down the process of selling your house. We have seen that in some cases, it has taken houses several months to well over a year to complete in a complex chain.

If a property chain collapses in the UK, it can be financially frustrating for everyone involved. On average, homeowners can lose around £2,899 due to solicitor fees incurred up to that point in the transaction. 

This cost can sometimes be even higher, with some studies suggesting that over 10% of people experience losses exceeding £5,000.

The more people involved in the chain (sellers and buyers), the more chances for delays due to individual circumstances in each link. 

Even with a simple property chain, problems can arise like mortgage complications, survey findings or legal roadblocks. In a chain, these issues can cause a domino effect, impacting everyone. 

How long does a house sale take from offer to completion? 

As we have established, the average UK house sale takes around 12 weeks to complete from the time an offer is accepted. This process, called conveyancing, involves several legal loopholes which must be met before the house sale can be completed. 

Here’s a breakdown of the conveyancing timeline:

• Week 1-2: Initial steps like applying for a mortgage, instructing a survey, and property searches begin.

• Week 3-6: Negotiations on the contract and completion date usually happen.

• Week 7-10: Financial transactions occur, including deposit transfer, contract exchange (legally binding both parties) and finally completion (ownership transfer).

But, there are some other factors that could extend this timeline, like complexities tied to shared ownership or leasehold properties. Being part of a chain can significantly extend the process due to potential delays in other transactions. Delays can occur if parties involved aren’t responsive or efficient. 

Why can’t I sell my house?

Shifting your mindset from “why can’t I sell my house?” to “Why wouldn’t a buyer want to buy my house?” can be a powerful strategy. This approach encourages a proactive perspective, helping you identify and address potential issues that might be turning away buyers. 

By understanding what buyers are looking for, you can take steps to make your property more appealing and increase your chances of a successful sale. 

Why am I getting no viewings?

If you aren’t getting any house viewings, the first thing to do is make sure your estate agent is maximising your exposure through property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla and OnTheMarket. These platforms reach a wide audience of potential buyers. 

But don’t stop there! The quality of your listing is crucial for making a great first impression. High-quality photos, an accurate balanced asking price, and a compelling description can make all the difference. 

An overpriced or poorly presented listing is likely to be ignored, so invest time in crafting a listing that showcases your property’s best features.

Should I chase my estate agent?

A good estate agent is a valuable partner in selling your property. Their communication skills are essential - a responsive and informative agent significantly attracts buyers. 

However, a lack of communication from your agent can be frustrating. Here’s how you can amend this situation:

• Establish clear communication: At the outset, discuss your preferred communication style and frequency of updates with your agent.

• Weekly check-ins: Schedule regular, weekly check-ins with your agent to receive updates and discuss any questions you might have.

• Address unresponsiveness: If your agent doesn’t respond to your inquiries within a reasonable timeframe (24-48 hours during the working week), a polite follow-up call or email is appropriate. 

If, despite your efforts, communication remains consistently poor or your agent doesn’t effectively represent your property, then it might be time to consider your options. This could be either finding a new estate agent or selling with an auction or cash buyer.

If you’re considering alternative routes to sell your house, we can be your ideal option. We have a tried and tested customer care team ready to help you at every stage of the house selling process, all while helping you to sell your house fast. 

Does location matter when selling a house?

Location absolutely matters when selling a house. It’s often referred to as the golden rule of open market sales. Location is usually driven by desirability, market demand and market appreciation.

Potential buyers are more likely to pay more for houses in desirable locations, like ones that are in proximity to good schools, shops and amenities. If your property is in a less desirable location like in a high crime rate area with lack of leisure facilities then the property is likely to stall on the market.

Furthermore houses that are within low demand areas, even if they have good local amenities and schools may mean that your house will also struggle to sell. Areas like these, could include areas where there used to be huge demand due to local industries, but people have begun to move away.

And lastly, if your property is in an area that has seen recent house price decline, then potential buyers may be swayed away from your property as they may be cautious they won’t make a great return on their investment. 

Knowing your local market is crucial for a successful house sale. This includes understanding the current activity level, often referred to as “hot” or “cold”, and it’s potential direction.

However, relying solely on estate agents for market insights might not be the most objective approach. While some agents aim to be helpful, they might hesitate to highlight a cold market for fear of discouraging sellers. 

A recent study revealed that 68% of first-time sellers were unaware of a cold market when entering the process. 

If you sold your house via a cash house buyer, then you would bypass “cold” and “hot” markets, because we will buy your house directly from you, whatever the market conditions. 

Will potential buyers purchase damaged properties?

Potential buyers will closely examine your property, both during in-person viewings and virtual tours. Be prepared for them to scrutinise everything from the layout to potential noise from the neighbourhood.

Addressing any structural concerns, environmental issues or layout quirks beforehand shows transparency and can help overcome hesitation. Remember a buyer with fewer concerns is more likely to move forward with the sale. 

My buyer pulled out during conveyancing, was it my fault?

If your buyer pulls out of the sale, it might not necessarily be your fault. 

Common pitfalls like delays in conveyancing, mortgage approvals or Land Registry hurdles can derail a sale. Being prepared can help you avoid these roadblocks. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation readily available and consider offering assistance to buyers navigating these complexities.

Streamlining these processes makes the buying experience smoother and positions your property more favourably to potential buyers.

My house won’t sell, is there anything I can do?

Stay informed about your local housing market and any recent regulation changes. Understanding buyer trends and market conditions is crucial for tailoring your selling strategy. 

If your property aligns well and you’ve addressed potential improvements, but it’s still not selling, consider exploring alternative selling options or revisiting your pricing strategy.

I can’t sell my house because of my neighbours

If you have problematic or noisy neighbours and it is swaying away potential buyers, then there are few things you can do. The first is to attempt to resolve the issue directly, which could either be through a direct but calm conversation with the neighbour or through mediation.

The second is to gather documentation if the noise continues, this includes writing down all dates, times, and durations of disturbances. If your neighbours are violating noise ordinances or engage in illegal activity, then file a police report to document the issue officially.

Thirdly, you are legally obligated to disclose any known neighbourhood problems on the seller’s disclosure form. This protects you from potential lawsuits but also informs potential buyers about the situation. 

Finally, if you are struggling to sell your property because of problematic neighbours, you could try to sell your property with us! 

Why does no one want to buy my tenanted property?

There are several reasons why selling a tenanted property might be more challenging than selling a vacant one. Buyers may be unsure of the tenant’s situation (remaining after purchase, lease expiration, etc). And the potential hassle of dealing with them.

They might face delays if the tenant isn’t flexible with viewings or the handover process.

If the buyer intends to live in the property themselves, a tenant in place means they can’t move in right away. Investors might be less concerned about this, but may factor in potential rent shortfalls during the handover period. 

Potential buyers might be wary of the property’s condition if they can’t fully inspect it due to the tenant being there. They may worry about needing repairs they can’t assess upfront. 

If you are struggling to sell a tenanted property, why not sell to us? We have over 12 years of experience in the property industry and deal with tenanted properties day in and day out.

How many viewings & what interest should you expect?

On average, expect somewhere around 2-3 viewings per week during the first week your property is listed. This initial burst can be followed by a more steady stream of 1-2 viewings per week. 

The number of viewings can be significantly impacted by the current market conditions however. In a hot market with high buyer demand, you might see several viewings in the first dew days, potentially exceeding 2-3 per week.

In a slower market with fewer buyers, viewings may be more spread out, and you might receive fewer than 2 per week. The average homeowner may experience 10 to 15 viewings before receiving an offer, although this can vary greatly. 

Something important to remember is that not all viewings translate to serious interest. Some people might be casually browsing or simply curious. You should be prepared for some back-and-forth negotiation on price and terms once you receive an offer.

When should I start getting viewings on my house?

Yes, the time of year can affect the number of viewings you get on a house. In the spring, this is generally the best time to put a house on the market. The weather is pleasant, encouraging people to move and visit open houses. There’s also often an increased inventory of homes available which makes buyers more active. 

Summer can also be a good time for viewings, especially in areas with desirable weather like Cornwall or the South East of England. However, there will be more buyers on holidays or looking after children. 

In the Autumn however, you may notice a dip in viewings compared to Spring and Summer. But, serious buyers might be more present as the initial rush of the spring market subsides.

In winter, this is the slowest season for selling houses and house viewings. Harsh weather conditions can deter potential buyers from scheduling viewings. 

How do you increase the amount of house viewings you get?

In order to increase the number of house viewings you get, and increase the chances of getting a house sale, you will need to improve your current property listing.

Improving your current property listing will need to be done with your estate agent, so if they are unwilling to change your current one, it's advised you find a better one. 35% to 40% of house sales were only successful after they had changed their estate agent.

Firstly, in order to increase the amount of house viewings you get, you will need to ensure your asking price is competitive for the current market and comparable properties in your area. An overpriced house will likely receive fewer viewings.

Secondly, you should advise your estate agent to invest in professional photography and videography to showcase your property’s best features. 3D virtual tours can be a convenient alternative for potential buyers who can’t attend a physical viewing. 

And lastly, you may want to consider speaking to your estate agent about hosting an open house, particularly if your property has had little interest from the property portals, this can also generate wider viewings. 

Something important to note is if you sold your house via a cash buyer you would not have to worry about house viewings or open houses. Cash buyers purchase your house directly from you, and although they may send someone to visit the property they are already interested in your property.

We are one of the UK’s leading cash buying companies and we can purchase your house directly from you in as little as 7 days, no viewings, no property portals, no fuss.

What happens If I cannot sell my house?

If you are unable to sell your house on the open market you may begin to feel some financial strain, emotional stress, your options closing in and potential damage in extreme cases. 

When your house is sat on the market, you’ll still continue to be responsible for ongoing expenses like mortgage payments, property taxes, utilities and homeowner’s insurance even if the house is unoccupied. This can put strain on your finances, especially if you’re relying on the sale proceeds for another purchase.

A prolonged sale can prevent you from taking advantage of other investment opportunities or limit your ability to relocate if needed. Furthermore, the uncertainty of not knowing when or if your house will sell can be stressful. You might feel stuck in a situation that doesn’t align with your plans.

Facing multiple rejections or a slow market can be further discouraging. It’s important to retain a positive outlook and keep working towards a solution. An unsold house limits your flexibility to make otherlife decisions. You might be hesitant to accept a new job opportunity in another location or downsize your living situation.

If you’re looking to buy another property, an unsold house can complicate getting financing. Lenders may consider the carrying costs of two properties when assessing your debt to income ratio.

In extreme cases, a vacant or empty house for an extended period is more susceptible to vandalism, neglect or weather damage. These issues can further decrease the property value when you eventually sell. 

If you find yourself unable to sell your house, one of the best ways to speed up the sale and get it moving quickly is to sell to a cash house buying company like us. We can purchase your house in as little as seven days, buy your property with cash, and help you move on with cash in your bank faster.

Whilst you will likely have to take a reduced below market value amount, a lot of the costs are made up by the fact we cover your solicitor fees, you won’t have any estate agency costs and you’ll save considerably on utility bills due to the fast speed of sale. 

I need to move now but I can't sell my house

Being stuck with an unsold house when you urgently need to move can be stressful. Here are some solutions to consider that can help expedite the selling process:

Why do some houses struggle to sell in the UK?

Is your house gathering dust on the market instead of generating excitement? The culprit could be one (or a combination) of several factors. In this section we will cover the top reasons houses struggle to sell in the UK, and equip you with solutions to get that “Sold” sign up fast.

Often significant structural issues, lack of maintenance or outdated features can leave a negative impression on potential buyers. Likewise, an unfavourable location near busy roads, high-crime areas, or lacking desirable amenities can make your property less attractive.

One thing that is often overlooked by house sellers, is if their property is in a flood-prone area, there is environmental contamination, or other environmental concerns can also deter buyers. 

Is my house not selling because it’s overpriced?

An overpriced property is the single biggest reason houses struggle to sell in the UK. Today’s buyers are armed with online tools that allow them to compare listings and market values instantly. Setting an unrealistic asking price sends the wrong message and deters potential buyers. 

Here’s why an overpriced house hurts your chances of selling:

• Limited viewings: Buyers quickly filter out overpriced listings, resulting in fewer viewings and less competition.

• Stale perception: A property sitting on the market for a long time can be seen as undesirable, further reducing buyer interest.

• Missed opportunities: While you wait for the perfect offer, serious buyers might find better deals elsewhere. 

Knowing your market goes beyond just the location of your house. Many sellers make the mistake of ignoring recent sales data and current market trends when setting their asking price.

For an accurate valuation, you need a deep understanding of what similar properties in your neighbourhood are selling for and how quickly they’re moving. 

Is my house not selling because of how it looks?

First impressions matter - a lot. In the world of house sales, the outside of your property is like a book cover. If it’s cluttered, unkempt or lacking in charm, potential buyers might judge the book (and the house) too harshly before even stepping inside. Here’s how a lack of curb appeal can hurt your chances of your house selling quickly:

• Buyers skip your listing: In today’s online browsing world, high-quality photos are key. An unattractive exterior might not even get clicked on.

• Negative first impression: If the outside looks neglected, buyers might worry about the condition of the interior and lose interest. 

The inside of your house should be a welcoming haven, not a time capsule from the past. Dark, outdated decor or a lack of basic maintenance can make your property feel smaller, less inviting, and ultimately less valuable.

Is my house not selling because of its location?

As we have touched on, the old adage holds true: location has a major impact on how quickly you can sell your house. It’s not just about the property itself, but also the surrounding neighbourhood. Here are some location factors can influence your sale:

• Neighbourhood vibe: Safety, noise levels and the overall feel of the area are crucial. A neighbourhood plagued by noise pollution or safety concerns will deter buyers, even if the house itself is lovely.

• Local amenities: Are there schools, shops, parks and other amenities within easy reach? Easy access to these everyday essentials is a major selling point for most buyers.

• Is your property accessible? Accessibility matters. If your house is far from public transportation, major roads or essential amenities, it might be a turn-off for potential buyers who value convenience.

You can’t change your location, but you can highlight its strengths! If your neighbourhood boasts a strong sense of community, excellent schools or beautiful green spaces, be sure to emphasise those aspects in your marketing materials.

What to do when you can’t sell your house - Tips, Tricks & Repairs

Facing a sluggish sale can be frustrating, leaving you wondering what’s turning buyers away. But fear not! This guide is packed with practical tips, tricks, and repair suggestions to help you transform your house from overlooked to desirable. 

By implementing these tips, tricks and repairs you might be able to increase your property’s appeal and get that house sale moving.

1. Rethink your asking price

The market moves fast, and sometimes the initial asking price needs to adjust. Over 35% of properties currently on the market are ‘price reduced’, which means that the original price of a property has been lowered to generate interest and help it sell faster.

Here are two ways to ensure your price stays competitive:

2. Boost your online appeal

In today’s digital world, creating a strong online presence is key to attracting buyers, working with your estate agent, here are some ways to help your property stand out:

3. Increase first impressions

A well-maintained front garden, trimmed hedges and colourful flowers can create an inviting atmosphere. Consider adding potted plants or window boxes to enhance your property entrance. 

Take care of minor repairs like peeling paint, broken fixtures or damaged roofing. A well-maintained exterior shows buyers you’ve taken pride in your home, potentially indicating a well-maintained interior as well.

Give your front door a fresh coat of paint in a warm and inviting colour. If it’s old or damaged, consider replacing it with a new door stylist. A beautiful entryway adds character and sets the stage for what’s inside.

4. Create a move-in-ready interior

The inside of your house should feel welcoming and allow potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Here are some ways to achieve that:

• Declutter and depersonalise: Remove personal items and excess furniture. A decluttered space allows buyers to imagine their own furniture and style in the home.

• Stage the space: Consider professional staging or use your own furniture to create functional living areas. 

• Highlight your home’s strengths: Showcase your property’s unique features! Arrange furniture to emphasise the flow and functionality of each room. Consider rearranging or removing furniture to create a sense of speciousness.

• Neutralise your decor:  Consider repainting walls with neutral colours to appeal to a broader audience. Bold colours or outdated wallpaper can be off-putting to some buyers. 

• Fix minor repairs: Addressing small issues like leaky taps or squeaky doors cna improve the overall impression of your home. 

5. Offer incentives

In a competitive market you may also be able to offer additional incentives to make your property stand out and entice buyers. 

This could include covering completion costs to make the offer more attractive and help seal the deal faster. Or alternatively, it could include leaving all the furniture within the property at no extra cost.

How can you increase the chances of selling your home?

When selling your home, especially in a market where competition is stuff and buyer’s expectations are high, you still have a chance to sell your property at full market value..

By focusing on these areas - leveraging your property’s school catchment area, employing strategic pricing and enhancing your home’s appeal through ‘show home’ styling - you can significantly improve your chances of not just selling your home but doing so at a more favourable price point.

I can’t sell my house: What are my options for a sale?

If you can’t sell your house, it can be highly frustrating, especially when time is of the essence. The good news is that there are alternative options beyond traditional methods. 

Some of the best house options for quick sales include selling to a cash buying company, property auctions and part exchange programs.

How could a property auction help my struggling house sale?

For a faster sale, you could consider taking your property to auction. Auctions can attract a different pool of buyers compared to the traditional market, potentially leading to a quicker sale. Here’s why an auction might be a good fit for your situation:

Reach a new audience:

• Auctions attract a wider audience, including investors and cash buyers seeking a quick turnaround. This can generate significant interest in your property, especially if it has unique features or appeals to a specific buyer type. 

Competitive bidding:

• The auction environment can ignite a bidding war, potentially driving the final selling price higher than the initial asking price. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations and understand that auctions can result in a sale Below Asking Price. 

But, there are several considerations to consider when using a cash house buyer:

Fast-paced process:

• Be prepared for a fast-paced timeline. Auctions typically involve a shorter marketing period and a quick turnaround for a decision.

Reserve price:

• Set a realistic reserve price, which is the minimum acceptable selling price. This protects you from selling your property for less than you’re willing to accept. 

Consult with an auctioneer:

Partnering with an experienced auctioneer is crucial. They can guide you through the process, ensure property marketing and advise on setting a suitable reserve price. 

Selling your house by auction can be a great way to find the right potential buyer but there is a risk that your house won’t sell, and it won’t far exceed your reserve price. If you’re interested in selling your house via auction, then we can cater for this. 

If you’re interested in exploring an auction sale, The Property Buying Company can provide guidance and potentially list your property in our monthly online property auctions. We have a network of investors, can buyers, and individuals utilising bridge financing who actively participate in these auctions. 

Learn more about the auction process and its suitability for your situation. If you’d like to discuss auction possibilities further, submit your postcode through our usual submission form and during the property consultant call, mention your interest in an auction sale.

How could a part exchange help me sell my house?

If you are looking to streamline your move into a brand new home and get a stale house sale moving, part exchange schemes can be the perfect solution! 

Selling your current house to a property developer eliminates the need to find a buyer on the open market. This simplifies the process significantly, allowing you to focus on the excitement of moving into your new home. 

With a part exchange program, you receive a guaranteed offer for your current house, providing peace of mind and avoiding the uncertainties of a traditional sale. 

Many part exchange programs allow you to stay in your existing home until your new build is complete, offering flexibility and reducing the stress of temporary housing during the transition. 

But, while the part exchange offers convenience and speed, the developer's offer might be lower than what you could achieve through a traditional sale. It’s important to compare the part exchange offer against the potential market value to ensure you’re making an informed decision.

Part exchange programs are typically restricted to new build properties offered by the specific developer. This limits your choice compared to the wider selection available on the open market. 

How could a cash house buyer help me sell my struggling house?

Need to sell your house quickly, even if it means losing some profit? Cash house buyers might be the answer. These companies specialise in buying houses directly from sellers for cash, often completing deals within a week.

Maybe you have your eye on an onward property and don’t want to miss out on it, or maybe you need to sell your house to pay for another investment. Whatever the reason, a quick cash buyer has money at the ready and can complete in a timescale that suits you. 

While the offers are usually below market value, the speed and convenience can be a lifesaver in time-sensitive situations. Cash buying companies are great at aiding struggling sellers because they allow you to get immediate cash in a very short time frame, eliminating the wait for a traditional sale. 

We are one of the UK’s leading quick cash buying companies, and are the most rated on Trustpilot. We cover all the legal fees associated with selling a house and you won’t face any other hidden costs.

I can’t sell my house: FAQs

How many people struggle to sell a house UK?

Recent market trends suggest a shift from a seller’s market to a more balanced one in the UK housing market. This means there might be fewer sales compared to previous years with houses potentially taking longer to sell.

It’s true that a significant portion of house sales fall through before completion. Studies suggest that over a third of open market sales fall through in the UK, causing frustration for homeowners. Here are some common reasons for these fall-throughs:

• Unfavourable surveys: A poor survey report highlighting unexpected repairs or structural issues can deter buyers.

• Buyer financing issues: Even with pre-approval, buyers might face difficulties securing a mortgage due to stricter lending criteria or changes in their financial circumstances.

• Chain breakdowns: In the UK’s chain-linked property market, a breakdown (failed sale) at any stage can cause the entire transaction to collapse.

How do you move if you can’t sell your house?

If you need to move but your house isn’t selling, there are a few options:

• Renting: Consider renting out your current property. This can cover your mortgage and potentially generate additional income, especially if the area has high rental demand. This might be ideal for temporary moves.

• Lease-option: You could explore a lease-option agreement, where a tenant has the right to purchase the house at the lease end.

• Bridging loans: Bridging loans are a temporary solution to cover costs of both properties, but proceed with caution due to potential financial risks.

Can you be forced to sell your house UK?

Unfortunately, you can be forced to sell your house if you are in any of the following situations:

• Legal orders: A court order might require a sale.

• Mortgage repossession: If you significantly miss mortgage payments, the lender may repossess and sell the property. Discussing repayment options with your lender is important to avoid this. 

• Joint Ownership disputes: In situations like divorce or partnership dissolutions, a court might order the sale of a jointly owned property unless both parties agree otherwise. 

How can I sell my house more quickly?

If you need to sell your house more quickly, selling your house to a cash buyer is a very good option. Cash buyers can complete purchases much quicker than traditional estate agent sales.

While the average estate agent listing can take 2-3 months to receive an offer, some cash buyers (like us) can finalise the purchase in as little as 7 days. This eliminates the uncertainty of waiting for viewings and offers, and provides faster access to your funds.

If you’re interested in exploring the cash buyer route, we can provide you with a no obligation cash offer and help discuss your options.