Is Selling Your Home a Sprint or a Marathon? Here's What to Expect.

Selling a home can feel like waiting for water to boil—especially when your life plans are on hold until the deal is done. But how long does it actually take to sell a house? Is it a quick dash to the closing table or a winding road with stops along the way?

Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or relocating for a new adventure, understanding the timeline to sell a home can help reduce anxiety and set realistic expectations. In this guide, we’ll break down the selling process step-by-step, from prepping your home to handing over the keys. Plus, we’ll share expert insights from Peter Klein, Team Leader of Tress Homes, to help you navigate the journey with confidence.

Why Timing Matters in Today’s Real Estate Market

In today’s competitive landscape, timing is everything—especially with shifting interest rates, changing inventory levels, and buyer behavior that can fluctuate from season to season. Knowing how long each phase of the home-selling journey typically takes will empower you to:

• Plan your next move confidently
  

• Avoid costly delays
  

• Set the right price and expectations
  
  

Let’s walk through the average timeline and what you can do to keep things moving forward.

Average Home Sale Timeline: A Month-by-Month Breakdown

“Most people think selling a home is just putting up a ‘For Sale’ sign and waiting for offers. In reality, there are several key steps before you even hit the market,” says Peter Klein of Tress Homes.

Here’s a look at the general timeline and what happens at each stage:

Before your home even hits the MLS, you’ll need time to:

• Declutter and clean
  

• Make minor repairs (think paint touch-ups, leaky faucets, etc.)
  

• Stage your home or improve curb appeal
  

• Take professional photos
  
  

Pro Tip: Homes that are staged and professionally photographed sell 73% faster than those that aren’t.

“We tell our sellers that preparation is the silent MVP. A well-prepped home can shave weeks off the selling process,” says Klein.

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Once your home is show-ready, your real estate agent will:

• List the property online
  

• Launch a marketing plan (social media, open houses, virtual tours)
  

• Start fielding inquiries and scheduling showings
  
  

This phase usually takes about a week, but it can move faster in a hot market.

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Once listed, how long it takes to get an offer can vary widely depending on:

• Location: Homes in desirable neighborhoods may sell in days.
  

• Pricing strategy: Overpriced homes tend to sit longer.
  

• Market conditions: Are we in a seller’s or buyer’s market?
  
  

“In today’s market, priced-right homes can go under contract in under two weeks,” notes Klein. “But even in slower seasons, we average about 30-40 days.”

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Once you accept an offer, the buyer enters their due diligence period, which includes:

• Home inspection
  

• Appraisal
  

• Mortgage approval
  

• Title search and final paperwork
  
  

This phase is the most predictable—but hiccups can still occur, especially if the buyer’s financing falls through or issues arise during inspection.

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Total Time: About 2 to 3 Months

From prep to close, the national average to sell a home is around 70–90 days. Some markets move faster, while others may take longer depending on the season and inventory.

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Factors That Can Speed Up (or Slow Down) Your Sale

✅ Speed Boosters:

• Accurate Pricing: Hitting the right price out of the gate attracts serious buyers.
  

• Professional Marketing: Listings with strong visuals and exposure sell faster.
  

• Home Condition: Well-maintained homes have fewer inspection issues.
  
  

⚠️ Possible Delays:

• Overpricing: Chasing the market down wastes valuable time.
  

• Poor Photography or Marketing: First impressions matter—online and offline.
  

• Financing or Inspection Issues: These can extend the closing timeline or even kill the deal.
  
  

How to Stay Ahead: Tips for a Smooth Home Sale

Here’s a quick checklist to keep your sale moving on time (or ahead of schedule):

🏡 Pre-Sale Checklist:

• ✅ Interview and hire an experienced listing agent
  

• ✅ Declutter and deep-clean your home
  

• ✅ Handle easy repairs and touch-ups
  

• ✅ Consider pre-inspection to catch surprises early
  

• ✅ Stage your home for photos and showings
  
  

📆 Timeline Management:

• 💡 Set a realistic go-live date for your listing
  

• 💡 Work with your agent to develop a strong pricing strategy
  

• 💡 Be flexible with showings to maximize exposure
  

• 💡 Respond quickly to offers and negotiations
  

• 💡 Keep paperwork organized for a smoother close
  
  

“Selling a home is like choreographing a dance. Every step—from photos to paperwork—needs to be timed just right to hit the beat,” explains Peter Klein.

Final Thoughts: Know the Process, Stay in Control

Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful if you understand the steps and work with the right team. While the full journey can take anywhere from two to three months, careful planning, preparation, and guidance from a trusted real estate professional can help you avoid common pitfalls and move forward with peace of mind.

Whether you're selling your first home or your fifth, remember: it’s not just about how fast you sell, but how well.

Ready to Make Your Move?

Start your home-selling journey today by visiting homeonward.com or reach out directly at tresshomes@gmail.com. Whether you’re just thinking about selling or ready to list next week, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.