How long will it take to sell a house?

How Long Does It Take to Sell a House?

If you’re thinking about putting your home on the market, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is: how long will it take to sell?

The short answer? It depends.

Let’s break it down a bit and look at the factors that influence how quickly a home sells—and what you can do to speed things up.

The National Average Timeline

On average, it takes about 55 to 70 days to sell a home from listing to closing. This includes around 30 to 45 days for the buyer’s financing and closing process, and 2 to 4 weeks (or more) to find the right buyer and accept an offer.

But that number can swing in either direction depending on a few key factors.

Factors That Affect How Fast Your Home Sells

Price It Right

Homes that are priced correctly for the market tend to sell faster. If you list too high, you may sit on the market longer and eventually have to drop the price. Pricing competitively from the start can attract more attention and even spark a bidding war.

Location, Location, Location

If your home is in a desirable neighborhood, close to schools, shops, parks, or lakes, it’s likely to get more interest right away. Rural areas or places with fewer buyers may take longer.

Time of Year

Believe it or not, timing matters. Spring and early summer are often the hottest seasons for real estate, with more buyers actively shopping. Homes tend to move a bit slower in late fall and winter.

Condition of the Home

A well-maintained, move-in-ready home is going to sell faster than one that needs obvious repairs. Staging, fresh paint, and clean landscaping can go a long way in speeding up the sale.

Marketing and Exposure

The more eyes on your home, the faster it’s likely to sell. Professional photos, social media promotion, open houses, and online listings make a big difference. This is where a knowledgeable real estate agent shines.

How to Sell Faster

If speed is a priority, here are a few tips:

• Work with a local agent who knows your market inside and out.

• Declutter and stage your home to show off its best features.

• Be flexible with showings so more buyers can come through.

• Respond quickly to offers and feedback

• Consider pre-inspections to avoid surprises later.
  
  

Bottom Line

While there’s no exact timeline for every home, being prepared and realistic can make a big difference. Some homes fly off the market in just a few days, while others may take a couple of months. The key is to price smart, present your home well, and partner with a real estate expert who can guide you every step of the way.

Thinking about selling your home? Reach out—we’d love to help you figure out the best strategy to sell quickly and for top dollar!