Proven Tips for a Fast Home Sale

Seeing your home sit on the market without generating any interest can be incredibly frustrating. It’s a challenging situation that many sellers are facing today, making it even harder to remain patient while waiting for offers to come in.

According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the average time a house spends on the market has steadily increased over the past few years. This trend can make it more difficult for sellers to attract buyers quickly (see graph below):

A recent article from Realtor.com highlights a similar trend:

“During the week ending September 14, homes stayed on the market eight days longer compared to last year. With more choices available and mortgage rates still high, buyers are being more selective, which means sellers need to be patient and adaptable.”

This slowdown is partly due to increased inventory, giving buyers more options to consider. Higher mortgage rates have also contributed to lower demand over the past two years. But there’s one critical factor that’s within your control—and where many sellers fall short. They didn’t work with the right agent. The truth is, with the proper strategy and an experienced agent, your home can still sell quickly, even in today’s market.

If selling quickly is your priority, partnering with an agent who understands the nuances of this shifting market is essential. The right agent will serve as your guide, showing you exactly what buyers are looking for and how to position your home to stand out. Here are just a few key tips a great real estate agent will walk you through. They may seem simple, but these strategies can make a big difference:

Competitive Pricing: One of the most crucial factors in a speedy sale is setting the right price. A local real estate agent will conduct a detailed market analysis, comparing recent sales and current listings in your area. Using that data, they’ll help price your home competitively. This pricing strategy is the best way to ensure your home hits the sweet spot for today’s market. As U.S. News puts it:

“Setting an unrealistically high price with the idea that you can lower it later doesn’t work. A home that’s overpriced from the start often lingers on the market, even after price cuts, because buyers suspect there’s a hidden issue.”

The Home’s Condition: Homes that are well-maintained, have strong curb appeal, and offer modern upgrades tend to attract buyers faster. An agent will guide you on which updates and repairs are worthwhile and how to stage your home for a great first impression. As Ramsey Solutions suggests:

“Address issues now that could cause problems during the closing process, such as plumbing, roof damage, or electrical issues. Get ahead of these fixes to help your home sell faster.”

Incentives and Extras: To stand out from other listings, consider offering incentives like help with closing costs, a home warranty, or including appliances and furniture in the sale. A skilled agent will know which incentives are most effective based on current buyer expectations, helping you close the deal faster.

Bottom Line

Selling a home quickly in today’s market requires a solid strategy and a deep understanding of buyer trends. That’s why partnering with a knowledgeable local agent is crucial. As Forbes puts it:

“When time is of the essence, you can’t afford to work with an inexperienced professional. Instead, choose an agent who understands your market and has successfully helped sellers in similar situations.”

Connect with an experienced agent to ensure your home sale is set up for success.