Selling a house usually takes 60 to 90 days, but this number varies based on location, demand, and property condition. A well-priced, move-in-ready home in a high-demand area can sell in under 30 days, while homes in slower markets or with repair needs can sit for six months or longer.
The process includes listing, marketing, offer negotiations, inspections, and closing. Each step affects the total time. Some delays come from financing issues, while others are due to poor pricing or market trends. Understanding these factors can help homeowners make better selling decisions.
The Timeline of Selling a House
Selling a home isn’t just about listing it—it involves several steps. The total time depends on how smoothly each phase moves.
1. Preparing the Home (1–4 Weeks)
Before listing, homeowners usually clean, declutter, and make repairs. If the house needs staging or renovations, this step can take longer. A well-maintained home attracts more buyers because it reduces their need for immediate repairs. Minor upgrades like fresh paint, landscaping, and modern lighting can increase appeal without requiring major investments.
2. Listing and Marketing (30–60 Days)
After listing, the house stays on the market until a buyer makes an offer. In competitive areas, homes receive offers within 15–20 days, while in slower markets, it can take over 90 days. If a home lingers too long, price reductions may be necessary, which can further delay the process.
3. Offer Negotiation (1–2 Weeks)
Once an offer comes in, negotiations start. If the first offer meets expectations, the sale moves forward quickly. However, if counteroffers and contingencies arise, this phase can take extra time. Buyers may request repairs, credits, or different closing terms, each requiring additional discussions.
4. Closing Process (30–45 Days)
After signing a contract, closing begins. If the buyer is financing the purchase, lenders require appraisals, inspections, and credit checks, adding to the timeline. Cash purchases close faster—often within 7–14 days—because they skip the mortgage approval process.
5. Moving Out (1 Week)
Once the sale finalizes, sellers typically need a few days to vacate. In competitive markets, buyers may request immediate possession, while others allow a post-closing occupancy period.
What Affects How Long It Takes to Sell a House?
Market Conditions
The housing market significantly impacts how long it takes to sell. A seller’s market—when demand is high and inventory is low—leads to faster sales. In contrast, a buyer’s market, where many homes are available, results in longer selling times.
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), homes in metropolitan areas sell 20% faster than those in rural locations. The difference comes from buyer demand, economic conditions, and job availability.
Pricing Strategy
A correctly priced home sells faster than one that’s overpriced. If a home is priced too high, it discourages buyers, leading to longer market times and potential price reductions. The longer a house sits unsold, the more likely buyers will assume something is wrong with it.
Competitive pricing attracts multiple offers, creating urgency and possibly leading to a higher selling price. Sellers who price their homes based on recent comparable sales in the area tend to close deals faster.
Property Condition
Buyers prefer homes that require little to no repairs. If a home needs major updates, it can take longer to sell unless priced accordingly. Homes with outdated kitchens, old roofing, or structural concerns often require significant discounts to attract buyers.
Small improvements, such as repainting walls, fixing leaks, and replacing old fixtures, can increase a home’s perceived value and reduce its time on the market.
Seasonality
The time of year affects selling speed. Homes listed in spring and early summer sell faster because families prefer to move before a new school year starts. In winter, sales slow due to holidays and cold weather in many regions.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes listed in May sell 18 days faster than those listed in November. This happens because buyers actively search in warm months, while winter months see fewer house-hunting activities.
Type of Sale
- Traditional Sales: Homes sold with financing take the longest due to lender requirements.
- Cash Sales: Cash transactions close in 7–14 days, as they skip the mortgage approval process.
- Investor Sales: Investors buying “as-is” properties often close within 14–21 days, making this a faster option for sellers needing a quick sale.
How to Sell a House Faster
Price It Right
Pricing competitively generates immediate buyer interest. A house priced too high often gets ignored, leading to longer market times.
Improve Curb Appeal
First impressions matter. Homes with clean landscaping, fresh paint, and modern fixtures attract buyers more quickly. A well-kept exterior signals that the home has been maintained properly.
Use Professional Photos
High-quality listing photos make a difference. Homes with professional photography receive 47% more inquiries than those with amateur pictures. Buyers rely on online listings, and poor images can deter interest.
Be Flexible with Showings
Allowing evening and weekend showings increases the chances of attracting serious buyers. Limited viewing availability often delays the sale process.
Offer Buyer Incentives
Providing incentives like covering closing costs or including appliances can make a home more attractive, especially in slower markets.
How Long Will It Take You to Sell?
Selling a home takes 60–90 days on average, but factors like market demand, property condition, and pricing affect the timeline. In competitive areas, homes can sell in under 30 days, while in slow-moving markets, they can sit for six months or more.
If speed is a priority, selling to a cash buyer or investor offers the fastest closing times. However, for sellers looking to maximize profit, preparing the home, pricing it correctly, and listing at the right time are key to a successful sale.
For those needing a quick, hassle-free sale, we offer fair cash offers with flexible closings. No repairs, no waiting. Get your offer today.
