What Is ‘Days on Market’ (DOM) in a Home Sale?
In real estate, DOM stands for “Days on Market” and represents a key metric that can impact your home sale, moving plans, and even your proceeds.
In the current market, one of the big challenges home sellers face is the time it takes to find a buyer. High interest rates have made buyers hesitant. In the real estate industry, this listing-to-contract period is referred to as DOM, or “days on market.”
What is “days on market” in a home sale? How might this metric impact your transaction, moving plans, or proceeds?
This easy-scan Q&A post is specifically designed for sellers, whether your home is already listed on the market or you’re making plans and need to estimate a timeline.
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What is ‘days on market’ in a home sale?
In real estate, “days on market” refers to the total number of days a home is listed for sale before an offer is accepted. This period begins when the property is listed and ends when it goes under contract or is removed from the market (delisted). DOM serves as a key indicator of market activity and a home’s appeal to potential buyers.
Why does ‘days on market’ on a listing matter?
DOM is significant because it reflects the property’s desirability and the health of the local housing market. A low DOM suggests that homes are selling quickly, often due to high demand or competitive pricing. On the other hand, a high DOM may signal overpricing, inadequate marketing, or limited buyer interest.
Properties with extended DOM can become stigmatized, leading buyers to assume there is something wrong with the house, which may lead to lower offers. As a home seller, you can work with your agent to improve your home’s curb appeal and marketability. (More on this in a minute.)
How long does it usually take to sell a home?
The time it takes to sell a home varies based on factors such as location, local market conditions, the skill of your agent, and pricing. As of early 2025, the median DOM in the U.S. was approximately 66 days. However, this number fluctuates regionally. In one state or city, a home might go under contract within 30 days, and in another, it might take more than 100 days to find a buyer.
Real estate groups such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and companies like Zillow host online pages that allow users to select and download days on market statistics for locations throughout the country. You can also visit your state’s Realtor Association website to find days on market numbers for your city.
