Days on Market Explained: Why DOM Matters When Buying a Home (2025 Guide)
Days on Market Explained: Why DOM Matters When Buying a Home
May 10, 2025
Scott Lehr, PA
Licensed Realtor & Market Analyst
The Listing Team at RESF
Phone: 954-342-6180 | Email: scott@reallistingagent.com
PROPERTY SEARCH
In South Florida’s competitive 2025 market, understanding Days on Market (DOM) can mean the difference between overpaying and getting a great deal. Here’s how savvy buyers in Fort Lauderdale, Weston, and Pembroke Pines are using this metric to their advantage.
What Exactly Is Days on Market?
DOM measures how long a property has been actively listed:
- Starts when listing goes “active” in MLS
- Pauses during pending/contingent periods
- Resets if listing is withdrawn and relisted
Key Distinction:
DOM differs from “Cumulative Days on Market” (CDOM) which continues counting through relistings.
Why DOM Matters to Buyers
This metric reveals crucial market insights:
| DOM Range | What It Suggests | Buyer Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| 0-7 days | Highly desirable property | Prepare for competition, consider strong offer |
| 8-30 days | Average market interest | Room for negotiation but act decisively |
| 31-90 days | Potential overpricing or issues | Significant negotiation opportunities |
| 90+ days | Likely problematic listing | Proceed with caution, investigate thoroughly |
Current DOM Trends in South Florida
2025 market snapshot for our area:
- Fort Lauderdale: Average 28 DOM (down from 35 in 2024)
- Weston: Average 22 DOM (balanced market)
- Pembroke Pines: Average 31 DOM (slight buyer’s advantage)
Did You Know?
Homes that sell within the first 2 weeks typically receive 98-102% of asking price, while those lasting 60+ days often sell for 90-95%.
How to Use DOM in Your Home Search
Strategic approaches based on DOM:
For Low-DOM Properties (0-14 days)
- Get pre-approved before viewing
- Consider escalation clauses
- Be prepared to waive some contingencies
For Medium-DOM Properties (15-45 days)
- Research why it’s still available
- Look for recent price reductions
- Use comparable sales in your offer
For High-DOM Properties (45+ days)
- Investigate for hidden issues
- Consider below-ask offers
- Request seller concessions
DOM Red Flags to Watch For
When high DOM might indicate problems:
- Multiple listing status changes
- Frequent price drops without selling
- DOM reset after long market time
- Property withdrawn and relisted with new agent
DOM vs. Other Important Metrics
How DOM relates to other market indicators:
- Price per sq ft: High DOM with high price/sq ft suggests overpricing
- Inventory levels: DOM increases when months of inventory rises
- Absorption rate: Faster absorption = lower average DOM
How Agents Use DOM to Your Advantage
We leverage this data to:
- Identify motivated sellers
- Time your offers strategically
- Justify offer prices with market evidence
- Spot potential “coming soon” opportunities
2025 Market Insight:
With inventory still tight in premium neighborhoods, low-DOM properties often receive multiple offers within days. Having an agent who can alert you to new listings immediately is crucial.
Let DOM Work For You
Our team provides real-time DOM analysis and strategic advice tailored to South Florida’s 2025 market conditions. For personalized guidance, call me directly at 954-342-6180 or schedule a buyer consultation.
– Scott Lehr, PA
Market Analyst, The Listing Team at RESF
