By Neil King

27 March 2023 / 5 min read

How long does it take to sell a house?

Property sold sign

Navigating the home-selling process

One of the most common questions sellers ask is, “how long does it take to sell a house?” The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Location, market conditions, and the property features can all contribute to the overall demand of your home. Reducing the time spent on the market is crucial, as it can lower the cost of marketing and the maintenance of your home. However, some locations take a longer time to sell, while other markets fluctuate and rise in demand. Local real estate agents dedicate their time to learning and following the latest trends and understand how to highlight your property’s unique selling points, to ensure your home is seen at its best at the right time.

To better understand the average length of time it takes to sell a house, it’s important to consider the factors that influence this duration. By identifying the features that bring the most value to your property and identifying ways to improve your home-selling experience, you’ll be better positioned for a successful and timely sale.

Location, location, location

The local property market in your area significantly impacts the time it takes to sell your house. High-demand areas typically experience faster sales, while areas with lower demand may see longer selling times. Researching your local market and understanding its trends will help you set realistic expectations.

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Property condition

A well-maintained, updated, and move-in-ready home is more likely to sell faster than one that requires a lot of repairs or renovations. Make any necessary repairs or updates before listing your property, and consider staging your home to make it more appealing to potential buyers.

Pricing

Accurate pricing is crucial for a quick sale. Overpricing may deter potential buyers, while underpricing could result in a lower profit. Collaborate with your real estate agent to determine a competitive price based on market conditions, comparable sales, and your home’s unique features.

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Marketing and presentation

Effective marketing and appealing presentation can greatly impact how long it takes to sell a house. High-quality photos, engaging descriptions, and a strong online presence can attract more potential buyers, leading to a faster sale. Your real estate agent can help create a marketing strategy tailored to your property.

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Seasonality

The average length of time to sell a house can vary depending on the season. Spring and summer often see an uptick in home sales due to warmer weather and families wanting to move before the new school year. Be prepared for potential seasonal fluctuations in your local market.

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Compare local agents

Partnering with an experienced real estate agent with a track record for selling homes in your area is key to achieving a successful and timely sale. Local agents bring a wealth of skills to the table, helping you navigate the unpredictable process of selling a house. They understand your local market, allowing them to provide valuable insights and guide you in making informed decisions. By staying up-to-date with market trends and remaining flexible and patient with offers and negotiations, your agent will help you better prepare for the ups and downs that come with selling a property.

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