When selling a home, one of the key numbers both buyers and sellers pay attention to is Days on Market (DOM). This simple metric tracks how long a property has been actively listed before going under contract. While it may seem like just another piece of data on the listing sheet, DOM can have a direct impact on your property’s value and how buyers perceive it.

What Does “Days on Market” Mean?

Days on Market represents the total number of days a home has been for sale, starting from the date it is listed until the day the seller accepts an offer. If the property doesn’t receive any offers and continues to be listed, the DOM count increases daily.

Buyers, sellers, and real estate agents all use DOM to evaluate how competitive a home is in the current housing market.

Why Fewer Days on Market Often Means Higher Value

• Perceived demand: Homes that sell quickly signal to buyers that the property is desirable. This can sometimes spark multiple offers, leading to bidding wars that push the price higher.

• Fresh listings attract attention: Buyers are most active when a home first hits the market. A competitively priced, well-presented home can capture strong interest right away.

• Seller’s leverage: When a home hasn’t been sitting for long, sellers have more negotiating power since buyers may feel pressure to act fast.

How Extended Days on Market Can Affect Property Value

While not always negative, a high DOM can sometimes raise red flags for buyers:

• Perception of overpricing: One of the most common reasons homes stay on the market too long is being priced above market value.

• Concerns about condition: Buyers may assume that if a home hasn’t sold, there could be hidden problems.

• Reduced offers: The longer a property stays unsold, the more likely buyers will make lower offers, thinking the seller may be desperate to sell.

Factors That Influence DOM Beyond Price

Not all high DOM numbers mean something is wrong with the property. Several factors can extend market time, such as:

• Local market conditions (buyer’s vs. seller’s market)

• Seasonality (homes listed in winter may take longer to sell)

• Unique or luxury properties that appeal to a smaller pool of buyers

• Limited marketing or poor listing photos

How to Keep Days on Market Low

If you’re selling your home and want to protect its value, here are some strategies:

• Price it right from the start: Work with your real estate agent to set a competitive listing price based on comparable sales.

• Enhance curb appeal: First impressions matter. Simple improvements can attract more buyers.

• Invest in professional marketing: High-quality photos, staging, and online exposure can reduce DOM significantly.

• Be flexible with showings: The easier it is for buyers to see the home, the faster it may sell.

Days on Market is more than just a number—it’s a reflection of how your property is priced, marketed, and perceived by buyers. A low DOM often strengthens your position as a seller, while an extended DOM can make it harder to achieve your desired price. By pricing your home correctly and preparing it for market, you can increase the chances of selling quickly and maximizing your property’s value.

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