In every market, some homes seem to disappear from the MLS in days while others sit for weeks or even months. It’s not just luck. Speed in real estate is almost always tied to strategy.

Whether you’re selling in a hot market or one that’s cooling, understanding the factors that drive a fast sale will help you position your property to attract serious buyers quickly. Here’s what the data — and years of selling experience — reveal.

Homes Still Sell Faster Than They Did Pre-Pandemic

In today’s market, homes are taking slightly longer to sell than during the peak frenzy of 2021–2022. But compared to the years before the pandemic, average market times are still shorter.

For example, in recent months the typical U.S. home has spent around 50 days on the market, according to Realtor.com. That’s longer than last year, but still faster than the pre-2020 norm.

The key takeaway: a longer timeline compared to recent highs doesn’t mean your home is struggling — it means the market is returning to a more balanced pace. Some properties will still sell in days. Others will take a bit longer. The difference comes down to the approach.

Four Factors That Help Homes Sell Faster

1. Price It Right from the Start

Overpricing is one of the quickest ways to stall a sale. Even in a strong market, buyers are comparison shopping and will skip overpriced homes. Starting too high and “testing the market” often leads to price cuts later, which can make a listing look stale.

What to do: Work with an agent who uses current local data — not just last year’s prices — to set a price that reflects real buyer demand today.

2. Make a Strong First Impression

Buyers form opinions within seconds of seeing a home, whether in person or online. A property with great curb appeal and a welcoming entry instantly creates buyer confidence.

What to do:

• Clean and maintain the front yard
  
  
• Refresh landscaping and mulch
  
  
• Power wash walkways and siding
  
  
• Declutter and depersonalize interiors
  
  
• Repaint in neutral, light tones where needed
  
  

3. Invest in Professional Marketing

Your listing is your first showing. Poor photos or generic descriptions can cost you valuable interest in the first crucial days on the market.

What to do:

• Use high-resolution, professionally lit photography
  
  
• Highlight unique features of the home in detail
  
  
• Publish the listing across multiple platforms, including major real estate sites and targeted social media campaigns
  
  

4. Leverage the Location

You can’t move your home, but you can highlight the benefits of its location. Proximity to schools, parks, restaurants, or commuter routes can be powerful selling points.

What to do: Work with your agent to identify and promote the best aspects of your neighborhood in the listing description, photos, and marketing materials.

The Bottom Line

Homes that sell quickly aren’t necessarily the ones with the most upgrades — they’re the ones with the best pricing, presentation, and marketing strategy.

If you want your home to stand out and sell faster, partner with an experienced agent who understands today’s market dynamics and knows how to position your property for maximum impact.