Which Properties Struggle to Sell in Portsmouth?

Selling a home quickly in Portsmouth can be simple in the right circumstances. However, not every property attracts eager buyers right away. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to sell quickly or a property investor looking for opportunities, knowing which types of properties are difficult to sell and why can help you make informed decisions and avoid common mistakes.

The Portsmouth property market: An overview

Portsmouth is a unique coastal city on England’s south coast, with a housing market shaped by its naval history, university population, and vibrant urban lifestyle. According to the ONS, the average property price in Portsmouth was £255,000 in early 2025. While this indicates a stable and active housing market, not every property sells quickly.

According to property trends, while semi-detached and terraced houses sell quickly, others may remain on the market for months. So, what makes it more difficult to sell certain homes in Portsmouth?

Types of properties that struggle to sell in Portsmouth

1. Older flats with outdated features

Flats, particularly those in older buildings without lifts or parking, typically take longer to sell. These properties have experienced the slowest price growth in Portsmouth, with only a 37.7% increase over the last decade, compared to a 77% rise for semi-detached homes. Many buyers today expect modern kitchens, energy-efficient heating, and outdoor space, which older flats frequently lack.

In areas with large student or rental populations, such as Southsea and Fratton, competition from newer builds or modernised conversions can have an impact on older flats.

2. Homes in need of renovation

While some buyers are actively looking for “fixer-uppers”, the majority prefer move-in-ready homes. Properties that require extensive structural work, have outdated wiring or dilapidated kitchens and bathrooms may deter first-time buyers and families who do not want the hassle or expense of major renovations.

In a city where competition is fierce and affordability is a concern, particularly among younger buyers, these properties frequently remain on the market for longer periods of time.

3. Overpriced properties

Regardless of the market, a property priced significantly higher than the local average will struggle to attract buyers. In Portsmouth, setting the asking price too high is a common reason for homes not selling. If a property lacks distinguishing features but is priced similarly to renovated homes or new construction, buyers may overlook it.

Local estate agents emphasise the importance of comparative market analysis. Knowing the recent sale prices of similar properties in your area is essential for setting a competitive asking price.

Postcodes in Portsmouth where properties sell more slowly

A 2025 breakdown of the best-selling and worst-selling postcodes in the PO (Portsmouth) area revealed some interesting trends. While areas like PO6 (Cosham, Drayton, and Farlington) tend to do well due to strong school catchments and transport links, other postcodes like PO1 and PO4 can be more hit-or-miss depending on the exact location and property type.

Areas with a high concentration of student housing or ex-rental properties may oversupply the market, resulting in slower sales for properties with no clear advantages.

Key reasons properties in Portsmouth don’t sell quickly

Aside from the location and property type, several factors contribute to a slow sale:

• Poor presentation: Cluttered or dated interiors, dark rooms, and unkempt gardens can turn buyers away.
• Legal issues, such as leasehold problems, boundary disputes, or a lack of planning permission, can deter potential buyers.
• Limited curb appeal: First impressions count. A shabby façade or broken fence can put buyers off before they enter the property.
• Lack of marketing: Low-quality photos, inadequate descriptions, and a lack of exposure can all reduce buyer interest.

What can sellers do to speed up the sale?

Selling a home quickly, especially one that may not naturally be snapped up, requires planning. Here are some useful tips:

1. Enhance presentation

Decluttering, deep cleaning, and staging a home can all help to improve its perceived value. Small cosmetic upgrades, such as repainting, replacing outdated fixtures, or refreshing the garden, can increase value without incurring a large expense.

2. Set a realistic asking price

Use sold property prices in your area to guide your pricing. Websites like Rightmove and Zoopla can assist you in evaluating current listings, while your estate agent should provide a comprehensive valuation based on recent local sales.

3. Use a specialist selling service

If your property has been on the market for a while, think about working with a company that specialises in quick sales. Companies like Sell House Fast can help you sell your home quickly, regardless of its condition or location.

4. Fix minor issues before listing

Whether it’s a leaking tap, a creaky floorboard, or a loose roof tile, addressing these issues before viewings can prevent buyers from thinking the property requires more work than it does.

Need to sell your Portsmouth home fast?

If you need help selling your Portsmouth home quickly, especially if you’ve had trouble on the open market – Sell House Fast is here to assist. We buy any home, regardless of its condition or location. Contact us today to receive a no-obligation, free cash offer.