Browsing property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, or On The Market, you may wonder why some homes in Lancaster linger unsold while others move quickly. The assumption is often that something is wrong—perhaps an issue with the property, an inflated price, or a lack of interest. However, many factors influence the time a home spends on the market, from pricing and marketing strategies to changes in a seller’s circumstances.
If you’re selling a home and wondering why it’s taking longer than expected, you’re not alone. Understanding the Lancaster market can help you set realistic expectations and make informed decisions.
How Long Should a Home Take to Sell?
When a home stays unsold for longer than expected, it’s natural to feel frustrated. Common concerns include market conditions, pricing, and demand for your property type. Higher-value homes, for example, naturally attract fewer buyers, leading to longer sale times.
One of the biggest reasons for a slow sale is overpricing. Even if you’re open to negotiations, an inflated asking price can deter potential buyers from even booking a viewing. Online buyers compare multiple listings, and if yours isn’t priced competitively, it may be overlooked.
Current Market Trends in Lancaster
Understanding how long homes are currently on the market provides insight into buyer demand and market shifts. Here’s how things stand today compared to January 2024:
- Detached homes – 98 days (up from 85 days in Jan 2024)
- Semi-detached homes – 106 days (up from 78 days)
- Terraced/townhouses – 97 days (down from 104 days)
- Flats/apartments – 136 days (down from 154 days)
These figures indicate that semi-detached and detached homes are taking longer to sell, while flats and terraced houses have seen slight improvements.
More Properties Available – What Does This Mean?
The number of homes available in Lancaster (city centre plus 2 miles) has increased from 382 in January 2024 to 496 in January 2025. The biggest changes by property type are:
- Detached homes – 131 available (up 244.7%)
- Semi-detached homes – 109 available (up 32.9%)
- Terraced/townhouses – 125 available (up 71.2%)
- Flats/apartments – 103 available (up 9.6%)
- Other properties – 28 available (down 70.5%)
With more properties on the market, buyers have more choices, meaning sellers must ensure their homes stand out to attract interest.
The Power of Presentation
Buyers today can browse hundreds of listings in minutes. On average, they view just 4-5 homes before making a decision and spend only 25 minutes in each. If your property doesn’t make a strong first impression with high-quality photos, well-designed brochures, and engaging video tours, it may be dismissed before they even book a viewing.
It’s not just about the price—it’s about making your home look and feel irresistible online. Buyers need to imagine themselves living there, and that starts with exceptional presentation.
Advice for Buyers: Be Proactive
For buyers, finding the perfect home isn’t just about scrolling through listings. Around 5% of properties never even make it onto the portals, meaning you could miss out on your ideal home if you rely solely on online searches. Registering directly with estate agents gives you access to upcoming listings before they’re widely advertised.
Patience is also crucial. The right property takes time to find, and rushing into a decision can lead to regrets. Consider all factors, from budget and location to schooling and family needs, before making your move.
What This Means for You
Lancaster’s property market offers opportunities for both buyers and sellers, but success comes down to strategy.
- For sellers: Price competitively, present your home professionally and ensure it stands out in a crowded market.
- For buyers: Stay proactive, be patient, and be ready to act when the right home appears.
Ultimately, those who take a well-planned, strategic approach will be best positioned to achieve their property goals.
Next week, we’ll discuss exactly how long properties in Lancaster are taking to sell!