Ask Phyllis: a blog series of frequently asked real estate questions. Email us here
Why some homes don’t get shown
Dear Phyllis,
We have had our Pasadena home on the market for two months. During the first couple of weeks, we had about 15 people come by to look, but since then, we only get a couple of different ones a week. I keep reading that there is a shortage of homes for sale, so why is our home the exception to the rule? Jamie
Dear Jamie,
First showings happen online. If you do not pass that first test, you will not get an in-person showing. Google your address and review the links that appear. Then, evaluate how your listing looks to potential buyers. In many cases, poor or missing photographs reduce interest. As a result, buyers lose enthusiasm before they ever schedule a showing.
When entering a listing in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), most Realtors and I enter remarks that are auto-populated to dozens of real estate websites. Why don’t some homes get shown? In many cases, several factors work together to limit buyer interest. First, poor presentation can discourage showings. For example, if photos do not highlight the home’s best features or if the listing description feels unclear, buyers may scroll past it.
In addition, pricing plays a critical role. When a home is priced too high compared to similar properties, buyers often choose not to schedule a showing at all. Similarly, limited marketing exposure can reduce visibility, especially if the listing does not appear prominently on major real estate platforms.
Finally, condition matters. If buyers anticipate costly repairs or outdated features, they may skip the home entirely. As a result, combining strong presentation, accurate pricing, and broad exposure helps increase showings and attract more qualified buyers.
Picture this scenario:
- • Realtor Kris receives a call from clients who want to see a home seller’s home.
- • She texts listing agent Phyllis to show the home today at 4 PM
- • Phyllis texts the home seller.
- • Kris and the buyers are waiting. The listing agent, Phyllis, is waiting.
- • You text Phyllis back, but she is with other clients and does not immediately respond.
- • Phyllis responds to the home seller’s message within a half hour and returns Realtor Kris’ text
- • Realtor Kris now calls her clients (a couple with two schedules) to confirm the appointment.
When a home is hard to show, buyers often do not see it at all. In many cases, the price is too high. In other cases, the location is not desirable, which also pushes the price down. You need to have an honest conversation with your real estate agent. Your agent should explain the real reason clearly. If your Realtor cannot give you clear answers, you should speak with their manager.
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