What to Do When Your Home Listing Expires in Des Moines

You had big plans. You listed your home, imagined the offers rolling in, and maybe even started packing boxes in your mind. But here you are, with an expired listing and no sale to show for it. First, take a deep breath—you’re not alone. In Des Moines, just like any market, this happens. The key is figuring out why it happened and planning to turn things around.

Let’s break it down:

Why Do Listings Expire?

In the Des Moines market, there are a few common culprits:

1. Overpricing: Iowa Nice doesn’t stop buyers from walking away if the price feels off. If your home was priced higher than the market could bear, it may have scared off potential offers.
2. Marketing Misses: Not every home gets the spotlight it deserves. If your photos didn’t pop, your online presence wasn’t optimized, or your agent didn’t leverage the right channels, you might not have reached the right buyers.
3. Market Challenges: While Des Moines boasts a steady housing market, timing matters. Listing during slower months or in a market shift can mean fewer buyers are out and about.
4. Property Presentation: Sometimes, minor details—like outdated fixtures or a cluttered layout—can leave buyers less than impressed.

What’s Next? Steps to Relaunch Your Home

Now that you’ve hit pause, it’s time to regroup. Here’s how you can relist your home for success:

1. Rethink the Price: Des Moines buyers are savvy, and they’re looking for value. This doesn’t mean slashing your price but aligning it with market trends. Check out what similar homes in West Des Moines or Johnston are selling for and adjust accordingly.

2. Make Your Home Shine: Ask yourself: “Would I buy this house?” Simple updates like fresh paint, new light fixtures, or a deep clean can make a huge difference. Focus on high-ROI upgrades for bigger projects, like kitchen touch-ups or landscaping.

3. Pick the Right Partner: The right real estate agent is crucial. You need someone who knows Des Moines inside and out—who understands why homes in Waukee move faster than in other areas and can market your home to the right buyers.

4. Relaunch Strategically: Timing matters. Spring and summer tend to bring out the most buyers in Iowa, but don’t overlook the winter months—fewer listings can mean less competition. If you’re unsure, let’s talk about timing for your neighborhood.

Why Now Might Be the Right Time to Sell in Des Moines

Despite your listing expiring, Des Moines remains a vibrant market, and experts agree it will stay vibrant in 2025. With its growing suburbs and family-friendly vibe, buyers always look for their dream home here. Adjusting your strategy and relaunching with confidence can turn your experience around.

So, if your listing has expired, don’t sweat it. Instead, let’s regroup, strategize, and get your home sold. You’ve got this, and I’m here to help every step of the way.

Ready to relist or have questions? Contact me at pete@peterjonesrealty.com or 515-738-3074. Let’s get your home back on the market and sold!