What could cause buyers to perceive a defect in a property that isn't really there?

When a property stays on the market for an extended period, buyers might form a negative perception about its value or condition, even if there is no actual defect present. This phenomenon can lead potential buyers to question why the property hasn't sold yet. They might assume that there are underlying issues, which can include the property's condition, pricing, or desirability in the current market.

The impression of a defect can stem from the psychological concept known as "market fatigue," where a prolonged listing can lead buyers to believe that because no one else is interested, there must be something wrong with the property. This perception can create a stigma that diminishes buyer confidence and can ultimately result in lower offers or potential abandonment of interest in the property altogether.

The other options, while they can impact buyer perception, do not directly contribute to the perception of non-existent defects in the same way that a long listing period does. A high listing price might scare away buyers, poor marketing strategies could lead to less visibility, and limited showing times might restrict buyer access, but none of these factors inherently suggest that the property contains flaws that are not actually present.