Why Is My Home Not Selling? Part 1: Is It Price?

Why Is My Home Not Selling? Part 1: Is It Price?

Let’s tackle the most common question first: Is your price the problem? As a Twin Cities real estate agent, I know this is often the most difficult conversation to have with sellers. It’s understandable—you want to maximize the return on your investment. However, to achieve a successful sale in the Minneapolis-St. Paul housing market, your price must align with the current 2026 reality.

Did Your Last Agent Prove the Price?

If your home is sitting on the market, ask yourself: Did your previous agent actually prove the listing price to you? If the answer isn’t a confident “yes,” let’s look at what was missing:

Hyper-Local Comparables: Did you see recent sold homes in Hennepin, Dakota, Scott, Wright or Ramsey County that truly match your home’s condition?
Real-Time Data: Were you shown pending sales in the Twin Cities? These are your most current indicators of what buyers are actually willing to pay right now.
Absorption Rate: This is a critical factor in 2026 real estate trends. It measures how quickly homes are selling in your specific neighborhood. Without knowing your area’s absorption rate, you’re just guessing at the value.

This Isn’t the 2020 Market

The biggest mistake sellers make today is pricing their homes based on the frenzy of 2020. The 2026 Twin Cities market is far more stable and balanced. Buyers are more intentional and sensitive to total monthly costs, especially with Minnesota mortgage rates hovering in the low-6% range.

The “Dated vs. New” Dilemma

Imagine a home built in the mid-90s—clean and well-cared for, but with older cabinets and original finishes. Now, look at a competitor down the street built in 2019 that is 100% move-in ready.

In 2026, many buyers are looking for convenience. If your home is priced the same as that newer, updated model, you aren’t selling your house—you’re just helping your neighbor sell theirs.

Marketing for the “Value” Buyer

I don’t recommend spending thousands on major renovations right before listing; tastes are too subjective. However, you must be aware of the “update discount.” Buyers who are willing to invest the time to modernize a home are still out there in the Twin Cities metro, but they are harder to find and expect a price that reflects the work ahead. To attract them, we have to market your home differently than a “new construction” competitor.

Do You Want to Sell—or Just Be “For Sale”?

Selling a home in 2026 requires more than a sign in the yard; it requires a data-driven strategy. Ask yourself honestly: Do you want to actually sell, or are you just testing the market?

If you’re frustrated that your home hasn’t sold, let’s get a fresh perspective. I can provide a free Twin Cities home value report and discuss the specific options for your neighborhood.

Contact me today to discuss your 2026 selling strategy and get your home moved from “Active” to “Sold.”