A long time on the market makes buyers nervous, and sometimes it should. But a home that has been sitting can also be a real opportunity if you know what to check. Here is how I help clients tell the difference.
1. Read the days on market and price history
Look at how long it has been listed and whether the price has dropped or the listing was reset to hide the clock. Cuts over time can mean negotiating room, or a problem others have already spotted.
2. Ask why it has not sold
Have your agent ask directly. Is it priced too high, dated, on a busy road, or in a flood zone? The reason tells you whether it is fixable or a dealbreaker.
3. Check the big-ticket systems
Note the age of the roof, AC, and water heater, and the condition of the windows. These are expensive, and the roof and AC also affect your insurance.
4. Look for water and check the flood zone
Scan for stains, musty smells, and grading that slopes toward the house, then look up the FEMA flood zone.
5. Run the full carrying cost
Add taxes, insurance, and any CDD or HOA to the price, then compare to similar homes that actually sold nearby.
Get the checklist
I put all five checks, plus the questions to ask the listing agent, into a free Pre-Showing Checklist. Download it, or send us a listing that has been sitting and we will help you read it. Call or text 941.867.8667.