Regardless of your age or status, knowing how to sell a house fast is important.
Maybe you’ve scored a new job and need to move. Maybe you’re going through a big milestone. Or maybe you’re just ready to cash out.
No matter the reason, sometimes you just need to sell a house quickly.
Here are some simple strategies to make that happen.
Consider Cash Offers
One of the fastest ways to sell a house is to accept a cash offer.
There are companies and investors out there who prefer to buy homes using cash.
This is because cash sales are easier and quicker to conduct.
Sometimes the buyer will have an offer ready for the seller within 24 hours.
With platforms like Zion City Homes, you can connect with a whole network of cash buyers.
They don’t need to wait for mortgage approvals and they’ll often buy your house as-is.
This means you don’t have to fix anything or stage the home to look perfect.
You could be done with the sale in as little as 10 days.
Hire an Experienced Real Estate Agent
Another way to sell a house fast is to work with a skilled real estate agent.
Obviously, not just any agent will do. You want a legal and properly licensed agent who has a history of selling homes quickly in your area.
These agents know how to price your home right, make it look appealing, and market it to the right buyers.
Why does this matter?
Because homes sold by trusted top agents usually sell faster and for more money compared to homes listed by average agents.
If you choose wisely, you can expect your house to be on the market for only 30 to 72 days.
Top agents are experts at pricing and have the connections to get the word out fast.
Clean and Declutter
First impressions are huge when you’re trying to sell a house.
A messy or cluttered home can be a big turnoff for buyers.
If your house is clean and organized, people can imagine themselves living there more easily.
Spend a weekend cleaning and decluttering every room. This can make a huge difference in how fast you get offers.
Boost Curb Appeal
The outside of your house is the first thing buyers see.
You need to make sure it looks inviting. But there’s no need to invest in a full renovation to achieve this.
Simple, inexpensive changes can make a huge difference in your home’s visuals.
Here are some suggestions:
- Plant fresh flowers
- Re-paint the front door
- Add curtains to the front windows
- Power-wash your driveway
- Add small but tasteful wall decor
Little touches can freshen up your house and make it look way more appealing.
Stage Your Home
Staging is when you set up your home to make it look its best.
You want to highlight your home’s best features and make it feel welcoming.
This might mean rearranging furniture, adding light fixtures, or putting out nice towels in the bathroom.
Staged homes often sell faster and for more money because they make a great impression on buyers.
Price It Right
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is overpricing your home.
When you price too high, buyers may skip over your listing.
If you want to sell quickly, work with your agent to find a competitive price.
Some sellers even price their homes a bit below market value to attract more buyers.
This can create a sense of urgency and even lead to bidding wars, which might drive the price up.
Look at what other homes in your area have sold for, and price yours to sell.
Offer Incentives
Giving buyers a little extra can speed things up.
Sweeten the deal by offering to cover closing costs. Or throw in a home warranty to make your listing stand out.
Side perks like these may cost a little extra, but they can make buyers feel like they’re getting a great deal.
Explore Other Selling Options
If the traditional way isn’t working for you, there are other options.
For example, selling your house “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) could work if you already know someone who’s interested in buying.
This way, you don’t have to pay agent fees.
Just keep in mind that you’ll need to handle all the paperwork yourself if you take this route.
Another option is selling to an iBuyer.
These are companies that make instant offers based on an algorithm.
They usually charge a fee, but they can buy your house quickly.
It’s a good choice if you’re really pressed for time.
How Long Do Most Houses Take to Sell?
The time it takes to sell a house can vary widely based on location, market conditions, and the strategies you use.
On average, houses in the United States take about 55 to 70 days to sell from listing to closing.
This timeline includes around 30 days to get an offer and another 30 to 40 days to close the deal.
However, if your home is in a high-demand area or priced competitively, it could sell much faster.
Working with a top-performing real estate agent can also speed things up significantly.
In contrast, a home that needs repairs or is overpriced could sit on the market for months.
Factors that impact selling time include market trends and seasons.
If it’s a seller’s market, you’ll likely sell faster. A seller’s market is where there are more buyers than there are available homes.
But if it’s a buyer’s market, it’ll likely take longer. This is when there are more available homes than there are interested buyers.
Consider the season as well. Houses tend to sell more quickly in the spring and summer than they do in the winter.
What Is the Best Option to Sell a House?
The best option to sell a house depends on your situation.
If you need to sell a house fast, accepting a cash offer might be your best bet.
Cash buyers can close in as little as 10 days, and you don’t have to worry about repairs or staging.
This is ideal if you’re on a tight timeline.
If you want to maximize their profit, hiring an experienced real estate agent is often the best choice.
Agents can price your home strategically, market it effectively, and negotiate the best deal.
The process might take a bit longer; usually around 30 to 72 days. But it could net you a higher sale price.
Another option is using an iBuyer. This is a company that makes an instant offer on your home.
Although it’s quick and convenient, the service fees are quite high. They range from 5% to 14%.
What Is the Easiest Type of House to Sell?
Houses that are move-in ready and require little to no work are the easiest to sell.
Buyers are often willing to pay a premium for homes they can settle into without worrying about repairs or renovations.
Characteristics of Easy-to-Sell Homes
- Modern Upgrades: Homes with updated kitchens and bathrooms are more appealing to buyers.
- Good Location: Houses in desirable neighborhoods with good schools and amenities tend to sell faster.
- Curb Appeal: A house that looks great from the outside will attract more interest and showings.
- Open Layout: Modern, open floor plans are highly sought after and usually sell quickly.
Homes that have been staged to highlight their best features are also easier to sell.
Final Thoughts
Selling a house fast doesn’t have to be stressful.
From cash offers to the right real estate agent, there are plenty of ways to speed up the process.
Focus on what works for you and be ready to make small changes that can have a big impact.
With these strategies, you’ll be on your way to closing that sale in no time.