If you’ve been browsing homes online, you’ve likely seen the term Days-on-Market (DOM). Simply put, DOM is the number of days a property has been actively listed for sale. And here’s the truth: those days matter—a lot.
The first few weeks a home hits the market are when it gets the most attention. New listings attract the largest pool of serious buyers, and competition is at its peak. That “fresh on the market” buzz creates urgency—and often leads to stronger offers. But if a home is priced too high from the start, it lingers. And in real estate, “lingering” is the kiss of death.
Why? Buyers are savvy. When they see a home racking up days on market, they start to wonder what’s wrong with it. Even if the house is perfectly fine, the perception shifts. The longer it sits, the more leverage buyers feel they have—and that usually translates into lower offers. Sometimes much lower.
The takeaway for sellers is clear: pricing your home correctly from day one is critical. Overpricing in the hope that “someone will bite” often backfires. Instead, a competitive, well-supported price generates interest, activity, and stronger negotiating power while your home is still fresh.
In today’s market, you don’t want your listing to be the stale loaf of bread on the shelf. Start strong, price smart, and you’ll maximize both attention and offers in those all-important early days. The agent you choose matters, so choose wisely! For more information on the value of your home in today’s market, reach out to me at 215-813-6655 or Lynne@LynneKelleher.com
