--- title: Strategies for Selling a Home in a Buyers' Market description: Military homeowners are often on a compressed schedule when selling a home and can't always wait for the ideal time. Get tips from a real estate professional for selling in a buyers' market. image: https://blog.militarybyowner.com/hubfs/Infographics/IMAGE/Home%20Selling/ITI%20Strategies%20for%20Selling%20a%20Home%20in%20a%20Buyers%20Market%204.jpg --- [![MilitaryByOwner](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/hubfs/MilitaryByOwner_February2020/Images/logo_header.png)](https://www.militarybyowner.com/) Member Login - [About Us](https://www.militarybyowner.com/about-us/) - [About Us](https://www.militarybyowner.com/about-us/) - [Company History](https://www.militarybyowner.com/about-us/company-history/) - [Why Choose Us?](https://www.militarybyowner.com/about/why-choose-us/) - [Testimonials](https://www.militarybyowner.com/testimonials/) - [Advertise](https://www.militarybyowner.com/advertise/) - [Blog](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/) - [Resources](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/) - [Resources](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/) - [Ebooks](https://www.militarybyowner.com/ebooks/) - [Home Buying](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/home-buying-resources/) - [Home Decorating/Maintenance Resources](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/home-decorating-and-maintenance-resources/) - [Home Financing](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/home-financing-resources/) - [Home Selling](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/home-selling-resources/) - [Military Life](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/military-life-resources/) - [PCS/Relocation Resources](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/relocatingmoving-resources/) - [Property Management](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/property-management-resources/) - [Renting](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/renting-resources/) - [Website Help and Videos](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/website-help-and-videos/) - [Useful Links](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/helpful-resource-links/) - [About Us](https://www.militarybyowner.com/about-us/) - [About Us](https://www.militarybyowner.com/about-us/) - [Company History](https://www.militarybyowner.com/about-us/company-history/) - [Why Choose Us?](https://www.militarybyowner.com/about/why-choose-us/) - [Testimonials](https://www.militarybyowner.com/testimonials/) - [Advertise](https://www.militarybyowner.com/advertise/) - [Blog](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/) - [Resources](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/) - [Resources](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/) - [Ebooks](https://www.militarybyowner.com/ebooks/) - [Home Buying](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/home-buying-resources/) - [Home Decorating/Maintenance Resources](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/home-decorating-and-maintenance-resources/) - [Home Financing](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/home-financing-resources/) - [Home Selling](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/home-selling-resources/) - [Military Life](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/military-life-resources/) - [PCS/Relocation Resources](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/relocatingmoving-resources/) - [Property Management](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/property-management-resources/) - [Renting](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/renting-resources/) - [Website Help and Videos](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/website-help-and-videos/) - [Useful Links](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/helpful-resource-links/) # Strategies for Selling a Home in a Buyers' Market ![Kristi Adams](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/hubfs/All_images/People/Kristi%20Adams%20bio%20pic%20(1).jpg) ## [Kristi Adams](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/author/kristi-adams) May 29, 2025 - [**](https://twitter.com/share?url=https://blog.militarybyowner.com/strategies-for-selling-a-home-in-a-buyers-market) - [**](https://www.linkedin.com/cws/share?url=https://blog.militarybyowner.com/strategies-for-selling-a-home-in-a-buyers-market) - [**](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.militarybyowner.com/strategies-for-selling-a-home-in-a-buyers-market) - [**](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://blog.militarybyowner.com/strategies-for-selling-a-home-in-a-buyers-market) [Selling a Home](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/topic/selling-a-home) ## Strategies for Selling a Home in a Buyers' Market In a buyers’ market, selling your home can feel like an uphill battle, especially when PCS orders add extra pressure to your timeline. But with smart preparation and a little creativity, there are several strategies for military homeowners looking to sell. ## ![Woman sitting in front of computer with her hands crossed under her chin and text, Strategies for Selling a Home in a Buyers Market](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Social_Media_Images/Pinterest%20Images/Pinterest%20optimized%20images/Strategies%20for%20Selling%20a%20Home%20in%20a%20Buyers%20Market.jpg?width=600&height=900&name=Strategies%20for%20Selling%20a%20Home%20in%20a%20Buyers%20Market.jpg) ## Pick the Right Agent In a competitive market, knowing how to choose a Realtor or real estate agent can make all the difference between a smooth, top-dollar sale and a stressful, drawn-out process. You need someone who understands military timelines, [knows how to market](https://www.militarybyowner.com/resources/showcase-your-home-like-an-agent/) strategically, and can help you navigate a tough market with confidence. Interview your top picks to find the best agent fit. ### Sales and Track Record What is the agent’s experience with a competitive market—and most importantly, what is their track record in the current area? How many homes have they sold in the past year? ### Percentage of Clients How many of their clients are sellers? And how many of their clients are military? If you plan to offer an [assumable VA Loan](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/8-things-to-know-about-va-loan-assumptions), does the agent have experience brokering the process? ### Time on Market and Comps A sharp agent will know the average time on market and should have a rough idea of comp properties, even on your first phone call. Knowing how long your property will likely be on the market before going under contract and comps in the area are a key starting point, and you’ll get a good feel for an agent to see if they’re the right fit for your needs and style. ### Marketing Plan Taking a few photos and slapping a generic listing on the MLS won’t cut it in a tight market. Ask the agent what their marketing plan for the property is. Professional [staging and photography](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/3-easy-steps-to-take-amazing-photos-for-your-home-listing) should be on the list, as well as an honest assessment of what repairs you need to make to get top offers. Professional staging and photos: Will the agent use a professional photographer, and do they offer staging? Are these services included as part of their commission fee, or is this extra? Can they show you examples from recent listings, showcasing their approach? Honest assessment: For top contenders, schedule a time for the real estate agent to walk your property, and offer an honest assessment. Will the home stage well? What repairs need to be made, including any curb appeal improvements? ***Have you wondered, how can I find a real estate agent near me?* Use [MilitaryByOwner’s real estate professional directory (search by base!) ](https://www.militarybyowner.com/business-directory/)for vetted real estate professionals.** ## Open-Ended Question *What haven’t I asked that I should know? *This open-ended question is an excellent opportunity for agents to showcase their talents and experience and helps you decide if they are the best fit. It's worth the time investment to carefully vet [potential real estate agents](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/choosing-the-right-real-estate-agent-a-guide-for-military-home-buyers) so that they can help best position your home in a competitive market. ## Make It Move-in Ready In addition to scouring listing prices and comps, many buyers are searching for move-in ready homes that require little to no immediate work. And if work is needed, expect buyers to open with either a lower offer, ask for a price concession for repairs, or make an offer contingent on repairs. With more inventory, buyers can afford to be selective, and a well-maintained, "show-ready" property stands out. ### Updates and Repairs Timely [repairs and fresh updates](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/12-repairs-you-should-make-before-selling-your-home) give home sellers an advantage in any market, but even more so in a competitive one. Repairs not only enhance a home’s market value, but they also make for a smoother inspection process, making it easier to sell quickly, besides avoiding any lengthy negotiations for repair concessions. *![Man holding ladder steady while woman stands on it to place blue tape on wall to prep for paint.](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Infographics/IMAGE/Home%20Selling/ITI%20Strategies%20for%20Selling%20a%20Home%20in%20a%20Buyers%20Market%202.jpg?width=900&height=600&name=ITI%20Strategies%20for%20Selling%20a%20Home%20in%20a%20Buyers%20Market%202.jpg)Photo by Blue Bird from Pexels via Canva.com* ### Declutter and Stage Like a Pro Decluttering is always a win for an upcoming military move, but more importantly, it also helps buyers envision themselves in the space, which is key for a buyer selecting your home over others. Staging is one of the best tools a seller has in helping their home make a great first impression and create a listing that grabs attention. While physical staging has long been an option, it can be time-consuming and expensive. [Virtual staging ](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/how-to-virtually-stage-your-home-even-if-youre-tech-challenged)offers you a chance to highlight your property in a great way and serve as a wonderful ad for your home! Making your home as "show ready" as possible from day one can be a powerful selling advantage. It paves the way for you to create a scroll-stopping listing and helps potential buyers envision themselves in the home, ultimately bringing in a successful offer. ## Price It Right Pricing your home correctly from the start will be one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a seller. In any market, but particularly where buyers have an abundance of listings to choose from, a competitive price can attract more attention, reduce time on market, and even spark multiple offers (yes, even in a "buyers' market!"). Overpricing in a tight market can lead to costly delays as you continue to carry the property and its associated costs. This usually leads to price drops down the line, which can steer buyers to either wait for another drop or assume there may be other issues with the property and not entertain an offer. ## Offer Buyer Incentives Having a few buyer incentives planned can help sweeten the deal, and once you have interest, can be especially useful to deploy in a buyers’ market. Some ideas: - Home warranty: convenient one-year options are available, and usually less than $1,000 - Closing cost concessions, full or partial - Assumable low-interest rate VA Loan, or offer interest rate buy-downs to lower a buyer’s mortgage rate temporarily - Prepay HOA fees (if applicable), or property taxes for a certain period - Offer to include appliances, such as a washer/dryer combo or fridge - Offer to include other furniture, such as patio sets, grills, play sets, or storage sheds ## Market to Military Families Military families are a distinct slice of the homebuyers’ pool and offer sellers the perfect opportunity to share how your home was the perfect match for this duty location. Make your home’s military lifestyle perks crystal clear in your listing, and harness the power of military networks. Highlight features like: - Short commute to base or gate access - Room for pets, fencing, or play equipment - Safe neighborhoods with nearby parks - Easy bus routes for school-aged children - Extra storage for gear and uniforms - Mudrooms or drop zones for kids, busy families, boots, and backpacks Leverage social media for military networks and word-of-mouth: - Don’t rely solely on your agent’s MLS listing—post your home in local and military-specific social groups. - Tap into your own network and share on your socials. - Reach out to your installation’s housing office to see if they highlight local listings. - [List on MilitaryByOwner](https://www.militarybyowner.com/advertise/) to reach other PCSing families. If you’re stressed about selling, you can guarantee there is another military family on the other side of the equation who are stressed about finding their new home. With a little targeted marketing, it might just be possible to create a win-win for you both. *![Woman in green jacket and black-rimmed glasses with hair in a bun, sits at glass desk typing on a computer. ](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Infographics/IMAGE/Home%20Selling/ITI%20Strategies%20for%20Selling%20a%20Home%20in%20a%20Buyers%20Market%203.jpg?width=900&height=600&name=ITI%20Strategies%20for%20Selling%20a%20Home%20in%20a%20Buyers%20Market%203.jpg)Photo by simonapilollatnf via Canva.com* ## Have a Backup Plan Sometimes, the market will not move on your timeline. If your home isn't attracting the offers you’d hoped for, the PCS date is at your doorstep, and the need to sell is urgent, you do still have several options. Take into account:  - Have you determined the correct asking price for your home, made any necessary repairs, and created the best marketing plan? - Hiring a new real estate agent. - Waiting for a better selling season. - A short-term rental solution, such as Airbnb or as temporary lodging for inbound or outbound families. - Becoming a landlord (MilitaryByOwner also lists rentals!). - A temporary [geo-bach situation](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/what-to-know-about-being-a-geo-bachelor), until the home sells. - Communicating openly with your lender. If it’s time to scrutinize the finances further. Selling for less than market value, looking into home equity loans, or refinancing are [additional options](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/options-for-military-homeowners-when-your-home-wont-sell) that, while not the most ideal, may be necessary to avoid further financial stress. Selling during a buyers’ market may take creativity and patience, but military families are nothing if not adaptable. No matter the market conditions, MilitaryByOwner has you covered with expert tips, trusted resources, and tools tailored to military life. From prepping your home to finding the right buyer, we’re here to make your PCS transition smoother every step of the way. Considering a FSBO (For Sale By Owner)? See our free guide below where we answer the most common questions concerning FSBOs! [![blue background with yellow and white text, cover image of FSBO FAQ Ebook from MilitaryByOwner with tan home and white flowers, text Get Your Free Guide](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/131168/1e500ca0-faea-4723-a8d9-155a5071c172.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/131168/1e500ca0-faea-4723-a8d9-155a5071c172) #### SHARE THIS ARTICLE - [**](https://twitter.com/share?url=https://blog.militarybyowner.com/strategies-for-selling-a-home-in-a-buyers-market) - [**](https://www.linkedin.com/cws/share?url=https://blog.militarybyowner.com/strategies-for-selling-a-home-in-a-buyers-market) - [**](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.militarybyowner.com/strategies-for-selling-a-home-in-a-buyers-market) ![Kristi Adams](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/hubfs/All_images/People/Kristi%20Adams%20bio%20pic%20(1).jpg) #### Author ## [Kristi Adams](https://blog.militarybyowner.com/author/kristi-adams) Kristi Adams is a proud Air Force spouse and served on active duty herself as a Space and Missile officer. She is an Associate Professor for the University of Maryland’s School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation and holds a Master of Real Estate Development degree from the university. She and her husband have profitably owned rental properties since 2004. When Kristi isn’t writing about real estate, she’s writing about travel and has been published in several books and national publications. Find more of her writing at [ Kristi Adams Media.](https://www.kristiadamsmedia.com/) ### OPT IN for our WEEKLY newsletter To be honest, we don’t do much outbound marketing. So if you give us your email, we’re unlikely to spam you. 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