Why Taking Your Home Off the Market Right Now Could Be a Mistake

Has Your Home Been on the Market Longer Than You Expected? If your house has been sitting on the market longer than anticipated, you might be feeling discouraged and considering taking it off the market to wait until 2025. However, that decision could actually end up costing you more. Here’s why staying patient and sticking to your selling strategy might be the better option.

Other Sellers Are Pulling Their Listings. Should You?

Recent data from Altos Research shows an uptick in the number of sellers withdrawing their listings, which means many are opting to hit pause right now. This trend isn’t uncommon for this time of year. Housing inventory often declines as fall approaches, with sellers postponing until the new year. As Mike Simonsen, Founder of Altos Research, explains:

“. . . we’re seeing a more normal seasonal pattern now with inventory beginning to decline. We’re also seeing more home sellers withdrawing their listings to try again next year. In fact, for every two sales, there is another listing withdrawn from the market.”

But is taking your home off the market the right call? While it might seem like a logical move, this strategy could backfire in the current climate. Here’s why you should stay the course.

Today’s Buyers Are Serious and Ready to Act

The biggest reason to keep your home listed is that buyers active in the market right now are highly motivated. They’ve been holding off for months, waiting for affordability to improve, and now that mortgage rates are starting to ease, they’re ready to make a move. With mortgage applications increasing, it’s a clear sign that buyers are gearing up to re-enter the market.

These aren’t window shoppers. They’re highly motivated buyers who want to move fast – and that’s the kind of buyer you want to work with. As Freddie Mac says:

“During the fall months, serious homebuyers are eager to settle into a new home before the holiday season ramps up and the winter weather begins.”

Keeping your home on the market means you’ll be in front of buyers who are ready to act quickly — exactly the kind of audience you want.

Bottom Line

Even though some sellers are choosing to step back and wait for next year, maintaining your listing now could be a smart move that sets you apart. With serious buyers actively searching for their next home, you have a prime opportunity to capture their attention. Pulling your home off the market might mean missing out on these ready-to-buy prospects, who are looking to move in before the holiday season or beat the winter slowdown.

If your home remains listed, you increase your chances of attracting those motivated buyers who are prepared to make a competitive offer. Don’t let the seasonal slowdown discourage you. Instead, leverage this moment by connecting with your agent to ensure your strategy is designed to stand out and bring you the best possible results. By taking a proactive approach and keeping your home on the market, you could benefit from the serious buyer demand still present this fall.