Why Some Homes Sell Faster Than Others

As you think about your next move, you may notice some homes are selling within days, while others seem to sit on the market for weeks. Why is that? According to Redfin:

“…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.”

This can leave you wondering what to expect when selling your home. Let’s dive in and break down why some homes sell quickly, and what you can do to make sure yours is one of them.

Homes Are Still Selling Faster Than Before the Pandemic

The first thing you need to know is that, in most markets, things have slowed down a little. While you might remember how quickly homes were selling just a few years ago, that’s not the case today.

With inventory on the rise, Realtor.com reports that homes are taking a little longer to sell now (see graph below):

But don’t get too caught up on the difference from previous years. Realtor.com puts it into perspective:

“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…”

But why do some homes sell almost instantly while others struggle to attract buyers? The answer lies in having the right strategy. Here are some actionable tips for getting your home sold quickly:

1. Price It Right

One of the biggest reasons homes sit on the market is overpricing. Many sellers aim for a higher price, thinking they can lower it later, but this strategy often backfires, leading to buyer hesitation.

What to do: Work with your agent to set the right price. They’ll analyze recent comparable sales in your area so you can price your home correctly for today’s market and buyer expectations. As Chen Zhao, Economic Research Lead at Redfin, advises:

“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 Great First Impression

A cluttered yard or a house in need of repairs can turn potential buyers off before they even step inside. Buyers often make up their minds within seconds of seeing a home, so first impressions are critical.

What to do: Start with the outside. Clean up your front yard, trim landscaping, power wash walkways, and add fresh mulch. Inside, declutter, depersonalize, and consider repainting with a neutral color to make your space feel fresh and inviting. Your agent will guide you on what’s most important.

3. Professional Marketing & High-Quality Photos

If your listing or photos don’t look top-notch, buyers may think you’re cutting corners. The way you present your home can make all the difference.

What to do: Trust your agent’s expertise to ensure your listing looks its best. That means:

• High-resolution photos that showcase your home in its best light.

• Detailed descriptions highlighting the unique features of your property.

• Listing your home across multiple platforms, including real estate websites and social media.

4. Highlight the Location

You’ve likely heard the phrase “location, location, location” in real estate, and there’s good reason for it. Homes in sought-after neighborhoods tend to sell faster.

What to do: While you can’t change the location of your home, your agent can emphasize the best features of your neighborhood. By showcasing what’s great about the area – whether it’s proximity to parks, schools, or trendy restaurants – you can help buyers imagine what life would be like living there.

Bottom Line

Homes that sell quickly don’t always have better features – they have better agents and a better strategy.

Thinking about selling? Get in touch with an agent to discuss how you can get your home sold quickly and for top dollar.