If you have been thinking about making a move, you may have noticed something strange: some homes are selling right away, while others just sit. So, what is going on?

We are still in a unique market. Inventory has crept up a bit, but prices remain high. The result? A mixed bag—some homes fly off the market in days, and others linger for weeks. It is not always about the house itself. More often, it comes down to the strategy behind it.

Here is what you should know—and what you can do to make sure your home is one that sells quickly.

Homes Are Still Selling Faster Than Before the Pandemic

Yes, things have slowed compared to the frenzy a few years ago. But today’s market is still moving faster than it did before 2020. According to Realtor.com, the average time on the market is about 50 days. That is longer than last year, but still better than the old normal.

That said, not every home moves at the same pace. The difference often comes down to pricing, presentation, and marketing. Let’s take a closer look.

1. Pricing Makes or Breaks It

If your price is too high, buyers will move on without even stepping inside. Many sellers want to “test the market” at a higher number and adjust later. But by then, interest has already cooled—and the home can start to look stale.

What to do: Price it right from the start. A strong agent will look at recent comparable sales and current buyer behavior to guide you. Getting the price right is one of the smartest moves you can make.

2. First Impressions Count—Big Time

Buyers make up their minds fast. If the house looks neglected, or even just a little tired, they may pass before they ever make it to the front door.

What to do: Clean up the yard, trim the hedges, and freshen up the exterior. Inside, keep things neat, remove personal items, and consider light touch-ups like paint or updated lighting. A few simple updates can make a big difference.

3. Professional Photos and Marketing Matter

Cell phone photos or a bare-bones listing will not cut it anymore. Today’s buyers shop online first, and your photos are your first (and sometimes only) chance to get their attention.

What to do: Your agent should provide high-quality photography, a great write-up, and wide exposure across all the right platforms—from the MLS to social media. Good marketing makes your home look valuable—and that attracts serious buyers.

4. Location Still Matters

You have probably heard it before: location, location, location. Homes in popular neighborhoods tend to move faster, but that does not mean you are out of luck if you are not in the hottest zip code.

What to do: A great agent will know how to spotlight the strengths of your location. Whether it is walkability, a quiet street, or a great local coffee shop, those lifestyle details help buyers picture themselves living there.

The Bottom Line

Homes that sell fast are not always the best homes, they are the best marketed. If you are planning to sell, having the right strategy and the right agent makes all the difference.

Thinking of making a move? Let’s talk about how to get your home sold quickly, and for the right price.