Selling your house and watching it sit on the market with no interest can be incredibly frustrating. Unfortunately, many sellers are finding themselves in that position today. However, with the right tips for a fast sale, you can attract buyers and close the deal quickly.
According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the average time a house stays on the market has increased in recent years (see graph below):
Realtor.com also highlights this trend, reporting:
"During the week ending Sept. 14, homes stayed on the market eight days longer compared to last year. With more options available and mortgage rates expected to drop, buyers are taking their time, which means sellers will need to be patient and flexible."
Rising inventory is giving buyers more choices, and higher mortgage rates have reduced demand over the past two years—factors largely beyond your control. But here’s the good news: there's something you can control, and it’s where many sellers go wrong—they didn’t team up with the right real estate agent.
The truth is, with the right strategy and agent, your home can still sell quickly, even in today’s market.
If timing is critical, it’s essential to work with an agent who understands the dynamics of the current market. They’ll be your go-to resource, ensuring your home aligns with what today’s buyers are looking for and stands out from the competition.
Here are some key strategies a great agent will guide you through for Selling Your House — simple steps that can make all the difference:
1. Competitive Pricing
One of the most important factors in selling your home quickly is pricing it right. A local agent will conduct a competitive market analysis, reviewing recent sales and active listings in your area. This ensures your home is priced accurately for the current market. Pricing your home correctly is the best way to hit the sweet spot. As U.S. News points out:
“Setting an unrealistically high price with the idea that you can lower it later doesn’t work... Homes that start overpriced often stay on the market longer, even after price cuts, as buyers assume something’s wrong with them.”
2. The Home’s Condition
Homes that are well-maintained, have curb appeal, and feature modern finishes tend to sell faster. If speed is important, make sure your house makes a great first impression. An agent can help you understand what improvements matter most to buyers, whether staging is beneficial, and what repairs you should address before listing. Ramsey Solutions advises:
“To sell your home fast, fix issues now that could slow the closing process. Talk to your agent about repairs needed to pass inspection, such as plumbing, roof damage, electrical, or HVAC issues. Getting ahead of these can help your home sell faster.”
3. Offering Incentives
To stand out in a competitive market, consider offering incentives, like assistance with closing costs, a home warranty, or including extra items (like appliances or furniture) with the sale. A knowledgeable agent will suggest which incentives are most appealing to buyers in your market, helping you close the deal faster.
Bottom Line
Selling your home quickly in a shifting market requires a strategic approach and a solid understanding of buyer preferences. That’s why partnering with a local real estate expert is crucial. As Forbes notes:
“When time is of the essence, you can’t afford to rely on an inexperienced agent. You need someone who knows your market and has helped sellers in similar situations.”
Let’s connect to ensure your home-selling strategy is set up for success.