Why Do Some Homes Sell in a Flash While Others Linger? Here’s What You Need to Know
As you prepare for your own move, you might have noticed that some homes sell almost immediately, while others seem to linger on the market. So, what’s the secret?
The real estate world has been a bit of a rollercoaster since the pandemic hit. With low inventory (though it’s slowly climbing) and high prices, the market has created a unique mix: some homes are flying off the shelves, while others stay put for weeks.
Naturally, you might wonder what to expect when it’s your turn to sell. Let’s break it down and give you some actionable tips to help your home stand out and sell quickly.
Homes Still Sell Faster Than They Did Pre-Pandemic
First things first: the market has slowed down a bit compared to the frenzy of recent years. If you remember how quickly homes used to sell, don’t be surprised if your experience this time feels different.
With inventory levels rising, homes now spend a bit more time on the market. According to Realtor.com, the average home recently stayed listed for about 50 days—around ten days longer than the past couple of years.
But here’s the kicker: despite this slowdown, homes are still selling faster than they did before the pandemic began. So, if your home takes a little longer to sell, it’s not necessarily a red flag. In fact, the extra time can be a blessing, giving you a breather to find your next place without rushing.
Why Do Some Homes Sell Quickly While Others Struggle?
The truth is, it boils down to having the right agent and strategy. Here are four key factors that can make a big difference:
1. Price It Right
One of the biggest reasons homes stay on the market too long is overpricing. Sellers often aim high, hoping to drop the price later—but this strategy can backfire by driving buyers away.
What to do: Work with a skilled agent who will analyze recent sales of similar homes to price yours competitively from the start. As Redfin’s economic research lead Chen Zhao advises, “Price your home for the shifting market; you might need to list it slightly lower than your initial instinct to sell quickly and avoid making concessions later.”
2. Nail the First Impression
Buyers decide in seconds whether a home feels right, so first impressions matter—big time. A cluttered yard or chipped paint can turn potential buyers off before they even step inside.
What to do: Spruce up your curb appeal by tidying the yard, trimming landscaping, power washing walkways, and adding fresh mulch. Inside, declutter, depersonalize, and consider neutral paint touch-ups. Your agent can help identify simple fixes that make a big impact.
3. Strong Marketing & Stunning Photos
If your listing photos look amateurish or your description is vague, buyers may assume you’re trying to cut corners.
What to do: Rely on your agent’s expertise and resources. Expect professional, high-resolution photos that showcase your home’s best features, engaging descriptions that highlight what makes your home unique, and broad exposure across top real estate platforms and social media channels.
4. Location, Location, Location
You’ve heard the phrase before—and it’s true. Homes in popular neighborhoods often sell faster.
What to do: While you can’t change your address, your agent can spotlight the best things about your neighborhood—nearby amenities, schools, parks, or community perks—to help buyers envision the lifestyle they’ll enjoy.
The Bottom Line
Homes that sell fast don’t always have better features—they usually have sharper pricing, smarter marketing, and the guidance of a savvy agent.
Thinking about selling? Connect with an experienced agent who can tailor a strategy to help your home sell quickly and for top dollar.
If you want your sale to be smooth and speedy, the right partnership and plan make all the difference.