Keeping Sellers Informed When Sales Stall

When a property lingers on the market, it can unsettle even the most optimistic seller. It's not just about waiting out a slow market—it's about proactive communication and managing expectations to maintain trust and confidence. In this blog, we dive into expert strategies that ensure sellers are well-informed and reassured throughout the selling process.

Setting Expectations Early

Set the Stage from Day 1

Before a listing goes live, it's crucial to prepare your sellers for various market scenarios. Informing them about potential delays in selling their home sets a realistic timeline and helps mitigate frustration.

What to say: "Homeowner, my goal is to get your home sold as quickly as possible for the best price. But if we don’t see the activity we expect, I want you to know I’ll be in constant communication. Every two weeks, I’ll update you on market activity, buyer feedback, and any potential adjustments we might need to consider."

This approach reassures sellers that you're fully engaged and proactive, which helps in building lasting trust.

Regular Updates are Crucial

Communicate Every 2 Weeks — No Exceptions

Consistent communication is key. Even if there's no significant news, it's important to keep the seller updated to prevent doubts from forming.

What to Include in Your Updates:

• Market activity: "Two homes in your neighborhood sold this week..."
• Feedback from showings: "Buyers love the layout, but they feel the kitchen could use updates."
• Next steps: "Based on buyer feedback, I’d recommend we consider a price adjustment..."

By maintaining regular contact and sharing specific data, you demonstrate your commitment to selling their home and keep the seller involved in the decision-making process.

Simplifying Complex Concepts with Analogies

Use Analogies to Make Your Point

Explaining market dynamics and pricing strategies through analogies can make complex concepts more understandable for sellers.

For pricing: "Selling a house is like fishing. If the bait isn’t attracting fish, we either change the bait or move to a different spot. In this case, our ‘bait’ is price."

For staging: "Think of your home like a product on a store shelf. We want yours to stand out."

The Importance of Empathy in Tough Conversations

Be Honest, but Empathetic

It's crucial to approach difficult discussions with empathy to maintain a positive relationship.

What to say: "I know this process can be frustrating... The feedback we’re getting tells us buyers aren’t seeing the value at this price point."

This approach helps to soften the blow of tough news while reinforcing your role as a trusted advisor.

Structured Planning for Ongoing Reviews

Use a 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day Plan

Implementing a structured review process at 30, 60, and 90 days provides a timeline that helps manage seller expectations and keeps them informed about the next steps if the home hasn’t sold.

Bottomline

Keeping sellers informed is more than a courtesy—it's a strategy to reinforce confidence and earn their trust. If you're considering a move to Orange County, connect with us. We're not just selling homes; we're building relationships based on trust and communication. Let us guide you through every step of your real estate journey.

Reference: Davis, D. (2025, March 14). How to keep your sellers in the loop when their house isn’t moving. Inman.