Factors That Speed Up Home Sales
While preparing for your own move, you may have seen that certain homes sell quickly, while others take much longer. The question is—why? Redfin explains:
“. . . today’s housing market has been topsy-turvy since the pandemic. Low inventory (though rising) and high prices have created a strange mix: Some homes are flying off the market, while others sit for weeks.”
You may be wondering what that means for your own sale. Let’s break it down and cover some smart strategies to help your home stand out and sell quickly.
Homes Are Still Selling Quicker Than They Did Before the Pandemic
First, it’s important to know that in most markets, the pace has eased somewhat. While homes were flying off the market a few years ago, today’s conditions are a bit more moderate.
Realtor.com reports that as housing supply has increased, properties are spending more time on the market (see graph below):
But before focusing too much on that ten-day difference from recent years, Realtor.com helps put it into context:
“In April, the typical home spent 50 days on the market . . . This marks the 13th straight month of homes taking longer to sell on a year-over-year basis. Still, homes are moving more quickly than they did before the pandemic . . .”
So if your home takes a little longer to sell this year, there’s no need to worry—it’s still moving faster than the historical average. And the bonus? You’ll have a bit more breathing room to find your next place, which can be a real relief during a busy move.
It’s important to remember that every home is different. Some sell quickly, while others stay on the market longer. So what makes the difference? Why do certain homes capture buyer attention immediately?
The key is partnering with the right Benson & Mangold agent and having a solid strategy in place. Here are some tips you should keep in mind.
1. Set the Right Price
Overpricing is one of the main reasons homes linger on the market. Sellers often aim for a higher price, thinking they can lower it later, but that strategy usually ends up deterring buyers.
What to do: Partner with an agent to ensure your home is priced correctly. They’ll review recent comparable sales in your area, so you can price your home based on current market conditions and what buyers are willing to pay. As Chen Zhao, Economic Research Lead at Redfin, puts it:
“My advice to sellers is to price your home fairly for the shifting market; you may need to price lower than your initial instinct to sell quickly and avoid giving concessions."
2. Make a Strong First Impression
A cluttered yard or a home in need of a fresh coat of paint can quickly turn buyers away. Since most buyers decide within seconds whether they’re interested, making a great first impression is crucial.
What to do: On the outside, clean up the front yard, maintain the landscaping, power wash the paths, and add fresh mulch. Inside, clear out clutter and depersonalize the space. A fresh coat of neutral paint can make a big difference. Your agent will provide guidance on what to focus on.
3. Effective Marketing & Professional Listing Photos
If your listing or photos appear unprofessional, you might struggle to attract buyers who perceive you as cutting corners.
What to do: Instead, trust in your agent’s expertise and resources to help you secure:
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Professional, high-resolution photos that show your home in its best light.
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Well-crafted descriptions that emphasize the unique aspects of your property.
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Widespread exposure through listings on major real estate sites and social media.
4. The Property’s Location
You’ve likely heard the saying "location, location, location" when it comes to real estate—and it’s true. Homes in desirable neighborhoods typically sell more quickly.
What to do: Although you can’t change your home’s location, your agent can emphasize the best aspects of your neighborhood or community in the listing. By highlighting what makes your area special, they can help potential buyers envision their life in your home.
The Takeaway
Homes that sell fast don’t always have superior features – they often have stronger agents and a more effective strategy.
Considering selling? Reach out to a Benson & Mangold agent to discuss how you can sell your home quickly and for the best price.
