Every agent has had a slow real estate listing at some point. Your listing is live… but the leads just aren’t rolling in. Whether it’s been sitting with little traffic or showing feedback is lukewarm, slow performance can be frustrating—and costly. The good news? It’s often fixable. Below are three of the most common issues we see with underperforming listings and what you can do today to give them a much-needed boost.
1. Poor Photo Quality is a Big Problem
Buyers start their home search online. No matter how nice the property actually is, if your photos don’t immediately grab buyers’ attention, they’ll move on. Dim lighting, awkward angles, or cluttered spaces can make even a great property seem lackluster. Invest in professional photography that uses natural light and wide-angle shots to showcase the best features. Consider adding twilight shots or a virtual tour to help your listing stand out in a crowded feed.
2. Weak or Generic Listing Descriptions
A strong photo may stop the scroll—but your copy keeps them interested. If your listing description is vague or packed with overused buzzwords (“charming,” “cozy,” etc.), it’s likely being ignored. Rewrite your listing to focus on lifestyle benefits, not just features. Instead of “3-bedroom home,” try “a sun-filled family retreat just minutes from parks and top-rated schools.” Be specific and tie the home to your target buyer’s needs.
Read more in our guide: How Top Agents Make Their Real Estate Listings Stand Out
3. Low Visibility on the Right Channels
Even with great photos and descriptions, your listing won’t gain traction if no one sees it. If you’re relying solely on the MLS or passive syndication, you’re likely missing out. Consider boosting reach through geo-targeted social ads, email blasts to your database, and featuring the home in Stories, Reels, and even local Facebook groups. The more tailored the platform and audience, the better the results.
Want more views for your seller’s home? Read: Top Realtor Secrets for More Eyes on Your Listings (With No Extra Effort)
Stop Slow Listings and Give Them the Marketing They Deserve
Slow listing performance doesn’t mean a listing is doomed. Often, small, strategic adjustments in visuals, messaging, and promotion can deliver big results. Start by identifying your weakest link—photos, copy, or visibility—and take focused action from there.
Need help revamping your listings faster? Ollin One gives agents the tools and templates to refresh listings, launch ad campaigns, and track what’s working—all in one place.
