If you have been watching the housing market lately, you have probably noticed a pattern. Some houses seem to disappear from listings in a matter of days, while others stay on the market for weeks. So, what makes the difference?
According to Redfin, “today’s housing market has been topsy-turvy since the pandemic. Low inventory (though rising) and high prices have created a strange mix: Some homes are flying off the market, while others sit for weeks.”
That can leave many sellers wondering what to expect when it is their turn to list. Let’s take a closer look at what is really happening and how you can make sure your home attracts buyers quickly.
The New Pace of Home Sales
Homes are still selling faster than they did before the pandemic, even though the pace has cooled slightly from the record-breaking years of 2021 and 2022.
Realtor.com reports that homes are taking a bit longer to sell in 2025 compared to the previous few years. For example, in April, the typical home spent about 50 days on the market, marking the thirteenth straight month of year-over-year increases in market time.
That may sound like a slowdown, but it is still much quicker than what was considered normal before 2020. Before the pandemic, many homes stayed listed for 70 to 80 days before going under contract.
In short, if your home takes a few extra days to sell, it is not a problem—it is simply a return to a more balanced market. The good news is that this slower pace can actually make your move less stressful. It gives you more time to prepare, find your next home, and make a smoother transition.
Why Some Homes Sell Faster Than Others
Even in the same neighborhood, some homes attract multiple offers in a week while others struggle to get showings. The difference usually comes down to the strategy behind the sale.
Here are four key factors that can make or break your listing.
1. Set the Right Price From the Start
Pricing is one of the most important decisions you will make. Overpricing can cause your home to sit on the market, while pricing strategically can generate quick interest and possibly even multiple offers.
Many sellers think they can start high and lower the price later, but that approach often backfires. When a home sits too long, buyers begin to wonder what is wrong with it.
What to do: Work with a trusted real estate agent who can analyze recent comparable sales in your area and determine the best price for your home today. As Chen Zhao, Economic Research Lead at Redfin, explains, “My advice to sellers is to price your home fairly for the shifting market; you may need to price lower than your initial instinct to sell quickly and avoid giving concessions.”
2. Make a Memorable First Impression
Buyers form an opinion about your home within seconds of arriving—or even sooner if they are scrolling through photos online. A home that looks neglected or cluttered can lose a buyer’s interest instantly.
What to do:
- Clean and tidy your front yard. Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and add fresh mulch.
- Pressure wash walkways and touch up paint where needed.
- Inside, declutter, remove personal items, and stage your rooms to highlight open space and natural light.
- Use neutral paint colors to help buyers picture their own furniture and style in the space.
Your agent can help you decide which improvements will make the biggest impact for your budget.
3. Invest in Strong Marketing and Professional Photos
A listing is only as good as its presentation. If your photos are dark, grainy, or poorly composed, your home might not attract the attention it deserves.
What to do: Make sure your agent provides high-quality, high-resolution photos and a detailed description that highlights your home’s best features. Many top agents also include drone footage, video tours, or 3D walkthroughs.
Your listing should appear across major platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, and social media channels where today’s buyers spend most of their time. A strong online presence helps your home reach the widest audience possible.
4. Highlight the Best of Your Location
The old saying “location, location, location” still rings true. Homes in desirable neighborhoods or near great schools, shopping, and parks tend to sell faster.
What to do: While you cannot move your home, you can market your location strategically. Work with your agent to highlight what makes your community special—walking trails, restaurants, schools, or community events. Help buyers imagine the lifestyle that comes with your property, not just the square footage.
Putting It All Together
Homes that sell quickly rarely do so by accident. They sell fast because the sellers and their agents understand the market, price strategically, and present the home in its best light.
If you are planning to sell, connect with a local real estate agent who knows your area and can create a personalized strategy for your home. With the right preparation and guidance, your house can be one of the ones that attracts eager buyers—without lingering on the market.