How long does it take to sell a house? Factors that speed up (or slow down) the sale

What influences the time it takes to sell a property?

Not all properties sell at the same pace. Understanding the different aspects—and working on them—will help you anticipate and make better decisions during the selling process. Here are the key factors that play a role:

Location

Selling a house in the center of a big city is not the same as in a rural setting or in an area with low demand. Location continues to be one of the main factors influencing how quickly a house sells.

For example, properties close to services and with good transport links tend to find buyers faster.

Adjusted price

A property priced above the market can remain unsold for months—or even years. On the other hand, a home correctly valued from the beginning generates real interest and visits from the very first days, increasing the likelihood of multiple offers. Buyers’ perception of value strongly influences their decisions.

Engel & Völkers offers you a free valuation of your property to help you set the most competitive price for your home.

Condition of the property

A home in good condition—ready to move into—sells faster than one requiring renovations or repairs. Small improvements, cleaning, and general maintenance can make a big difference, reducing selling time.

Property presentation

First impressions matter. Professional photography, a good descriptive text, and if possible, the use of home staging techniques—to sell faster—can significantly shorten the selling process.

Sales strategy

Selling on your own may seem simple, but without a clear strategy, visibility, and proper screening of visits, the process is likely to drag on. Having the help of a good professional agency provides structure, follow-up, and access to a network of qualified buyers.

Real estate market conditions

The current economic situation also influences selling times. Factors such as interest rates, financing policies, and market trends determine buyers’ availability and willingness. A favorable environment can speed up transactions, while an uncertain market may prolong waiting times.

Each of these factors is interdependent and can collectively affect how long it takes to sell a property. A strategic approach—like the one our real estate agents provide—that takes all of them into account significantly increases the chances of a successful and quick sale.

How to sell a house quickly: practical keys

If you want to shorten the time it takes to sell your house and increase your chances of success, consider these recommendations:

Set the right price from the start

Determining a fair price from the beginning is essential. Let yourself be guided by a qualified real estate agent, supported by a thorough market analysis that allows you to set a value aligned with the area and the features of the property.

Prepare the home for visits

Take care of first impressions to attract as many visits and buyers as possible. Order, cleanliness, natural light, and a well-maintained space play a key role in the sale.

Invest in good presentation

High-quality photos, videos, floor plans, and a description that connects emotionally will help capture buyers’ attention across real estate portals.

Have all necessary documentation ready

Having all the paperwork in order avoids delays during negotiations and conveys seriousness and confidence to buyers. This includes deeds, energy certificates, and any other relevant information about the property.

Rely on professionals

Selling a property quickly and effectively is not just a matter of luck, but of strategy. Working with a professional real estate agent makes a difference at every stage of the process.

Advantages of working with a real estate agent to sell your house quickly

Here are some of the key benefits of professional real estate advice:

• Accurate property valuation, adjusted to real market conditions.

• Personalized marketing strategy, including professional photography, home staging, and visibility on leading portals.

• Buyer screening, saving time and avoiding unproductive visits.

• Expert negotiation, defending your interests and seeking to close on the best terms.

• Comprehensive management of the entire process, from first contacts to signing before a notary.

At Engel & Völkers, our advisors accompany every homeowner with professionalism, closeness, and high-level tools so you can achieve your goal in the shortest possible time.

What happens if a house takes too long to sell?

When a property has been on the market for a long time, it starts generating a negative perception. Buyers who repeatedly see the listing tend to think: the price is too high, the condition is not as expected, or there’s a hidden problem. This distrust ends up discouraging visits and even offers.

Some of the most common consequences are:

• Lower offers from buyers: as time passes, potential buyers begin to think they can negotiate down.

• Emotional strain on the seller: constantly monitoring the listing, visits that don’t lead anywhere, and silence from interested parties generate frustration, doubts, and anxiety. This emotional burden may lead to rushed decisions, such as lowering the price excessively or accepting unfavorable conditions.

• Forced changes in sales strategy: sometimes, after weeks without results, it becomes necessary to change the marketing strategy, as well as the property’s presentation.

• Loss of real opportunities: a house that fails to generate interest loses the chance to attract the most active buyers at the key moment. The first days on the market are decisive.

Frequently asked questions about the time it takes to sell a house

Which factors can speed up the sale of a property?

Location, a fair price, and the property’s condition are key elements that can make a home sell faster. Good presentation and an effective marketing strategy also play a crucial role.

Is it possible to sell a house in less than a month?

Yes, especially if the property is well located, competitively priced, and marketed with a professional strategy.

Why am I not receiving visits?

It may be due to an incorrect price, poor presentation, or lack of visibility on the right channels.

What role does price play in the speed of the sale?

Setting a realistic and competitive price is essential. An overpriced home can discourage potential buyers, while a fair price can generate immediate interest and speed up the sale.

Can I sell without lowering the price if the house takes long?

Yes, but it may require improvements, relaunching the property with a new image, or professional support.

How much does presentation influence selling time?

Presentation is vital. Investing in small repairs and aesthetic improvements can make the property more attractive to buyers, thus speeding up the selling process.

Does using an agency make the process faster?

In most cases, yes. An agency like Engel & Völkers helps you avoid common mistakes, attract the right buyer profile, and close on better terms.

Our team of real estate advisors supports you with market knowledge, an international network, and a personalized sales plan for your property. If you’re thinking of selling, get in touch with our team.