Don’t Skip That Home That’s Been Sitting on the Market

A question I hear often from buyers is whether a home that has been sitting on the market should be avoided. It is easy to assume something must be wrong if a property has not gone pending quickly. In reality, homes that have been listed longer can sometimes offer some of the best opportunities in today’s market.

Instead of scrolling past them, these listings are often worth a closer look.

Why Some Homes Sit Longer Than Others

A home staying on the market does not always mean there is a major issue. In many cases, timing or pricing plays a bigger role than condition.

Some sellers list their home at the very top of the market to test demand. If buyers do not respond, the home may sit until price adjustments are made. Others may launch during slower seasons when buyer activity is lower, even though the home itself is solid.

There are also situations where photos or marketing did not highlight the home well, causing buyers to overlook it online even though it shows well in person.

What Longer Market Time Can Mean for Buyers

When a home has been listed for a while, sellers are often more open to conversations. That flexibility can create opportunities buyers do not usually get with brand new listings.

This may include room for price negotiation, seller credits toward closing costs, interest rate buy downs, or flexibility on timelines. In some cases, inspections or repair requests are also received more openly.

Homes with longer market time can allow buyers to slow down, evaluate options carefully, and make thoughtful decisions without the pressure of multiple offers.

How to Spot a Good Opportunity

The key is knowing the difference between a home that is simply overlooked and one that has real concerns.

This is where having a local agent matters. Reviewing price history, neighborhood trends, comparable sales, and inspection disclosures helps identify whether a home is priced incorrectly or if there are items to investigate further.

Some of the best values come from homes that just missed the mark on pricing or presentation but are otherwise strong properties in good locations.

The Bottom Line

Not every home that has been sitting on the market is a deal, but many deserve a second look. With the right strategy and guidance, these homes can offer value, flexibility, and negotiating power that newer listings often do not.

If you are house hunting and curious whether a longer listed home could be a smart move, I am always happy to help you evaluate it and talk through the pros and cons.