Selling a home in St. Louis, MO can be stressful, and having problems with the home can make it even more challenging to sell. Issues such as having a mortgage, unpaid bills, or a pending foreclosure can add to the stress and complications of the situation.
Big Reasons Your House in St. Louis May Not Sell Quickly
Although there is currently a low inventory of houses on the market, there may be several reasons why a house may not sell quickly in St. Louis. According to Bankrate, there is a chance that home inventories will rise again in 2023 due to increased interest rates and a fragile economy. This means that houses with underlying issues, as discussed below, may have a lower chance of selling through traditional real estate sales methods, such as working with a real estate agent or selling through FSBO.
General Disrepair or Bad Foundation
The house appears to be in a state of disrepair, with several issues affecting its exterior and foundation. These issues include peeling paint, broken windows, and numerous cracks in the foundation that pose a safety risk. Furthermore, the repair work on the house was never completed, leading to its current unpermitted status. It cannot, therefore, be bought or rented. You have two options: either restore the foundation and obtain the required permits, or sell the house as it is to an eligible homebuyer. Restoring the foundation will require both time and money, and during this process, the condition of the house may worsen.
Mounds of Clutter
It is common for people to accumulate a large number of personal possessions over time, which can make their house feel crowded and congested. This includes old furniture, sentimental items, and junk that has accumulated. The clutter can become overwhelming, especially in homes occupied by elderly people for a long time, making it difficult to sell the house. The presence of clutter in the house may cause uncertainty in potential buyers about their ability to purchase the property. It may also hinder their ability to visualize the full potential of the living
space.
Musty or Moldy Odor
Selling a house that has a moldy or mildew smell can be difficult. Even if you find a buyer who doesn’t mind the smell, you may have to lower the price. There are a few solutions to get rid of the smell, but most are not effective unless you do a thorough renovation.
The odor has permeated into the carpet, walls, and furniture, potentially affecting the buyer’s health. There may also be a more significant problem with mold that requires an expensive cleaning process.
To prevent the mold and mildew smell from coming back, take action after locating and cleaning the source of the odor. Keep your home well-ventilated, consider using a dehumidifier, and regularly clean your house, paying attention to places where mold and mildew usually grow. By following these steps, you can completely eliminate the moldy mildew smell and increase the market value of your home.
High Utility Bills Due to Poor Insulation
Drafty windows are a significant reason for low energy efficiency in homes. The U.S. Department of Energy has stated that drafty windows can increase your heating and cooling expenses by up to 30%. They allow cold air to enter your home in winter and hot air in summer, making your furnace or air conditioner work harder to regulate the indoor temperature. To reduce your energy costs, consider replacing your old windows with newer, more energy-efficient ones. It is recommended to install new windows that are better insulated and sealed as they prevent loss of heat or cool air. Replacing older single-pane windows with double- or triple-pane windows can also lead to significant reduction in energy consumption. During a home inspection, a wise buyer will review utility bills to identify any issues with the home.
Other Important Factors That Can Affect Your St. Louis, Missouri Home To not Sell
Property.com lists 35 possible reasons that can make selling a house difficult. In addition to the top reasons mentioned earlier, the list includes:
- Small Kitchen
- Low Ceilings
- Crazy Layouts
- Cramped, Dark Interior Spaces
- Worn and Stained Carpet
- Small or Ugly Bathrooms
- Overgrown Landscape
Fast Lane Realty Is an Answer for St. Louis, Missouri’s Difficult-to-Sell Homes.
If your St. Louis home fits these descriptions, you don’t need to make costly repairs or continue paying for insurance and taxes. Instead, contact Fast Lane Realty in St. Louis for a quick cash-out solution. If you’re selling your home in St. Louis, Missouri, we can help. Our team has a 5-star reputation for professionalism, fairness, and kindness. We’re experienced home buyers and can handle all maintenance and other issues. Our system is easy and transparent, so you know what to expect at every stage. You can either call us at 314-310-8338 or fill out the form on our website.