Sell Your House

How Long Does It Take to Sell a House in Florida?

how long does it take to sell a house in florida

The Florida real estate market is bustling with ripe opportunities for sellers to potentially turn a profit. But there is one major challenge: How long will the property stay on the market? Depending on the city and condition of the house in Florida, the average time to sell a house can be as little as a few weeks or as much as a few months—sometimes even more than a year. That’s why it’s important to know the average time to sell a house in Florida so you can plan accordingly. Below, I’ll detail the factors that’ll affect the number of days your house will sit on the market, and what you need to know about selling your house in Florida efficiently. Not only that, but I’ll reveal one unique and simple to get a cash offer on your house in as little as 24 hours.

An Overview of the Average Time It Takes to Sell A House in Florida Right Now

In 2024, Florida’s median home sale price topped $420,000—an increase of 3.1% year over year. Now, the median days on the market is 64. That means right in the middle of all the houses on the market in Florida, listings spend about 64 days to the sale.

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Of course, depending on the city, the median days on market will vary. In Florida City, the median days on market is 78. In other words, if you put a home for sale in Florida City, you can expect that home to close in about 78 days. In Miami, that figure sits at 64 days.

Here’s a look at the most current median days on the market for my favorite cities in Florida.

CityMedian Days on Market
Miami64
Orlando47
Jacksonville51
Tampa47
Naples86
Sarasota79
Pensacola59
Fort Myers81
Tallahassee38
Lakeland48
Source: St. Louis Fed

The current market trend from my point of view is a well-balanced supply and demand of homes in Florida. However, I do believe demand will outpace supply very soon—leading to increased prices and better conditions for sellers.

Now, keep in mind, that there are a number of factors that’ll affect how long it takes to sell your house in Florida.

Factors That Affect How Long It Takes to Sell a House in Florida

factors that affect how long it takes to sell your home in florida

As I mentioned earlier, there are a few different factors that will affect how long it takes to sell a house in Florida. From my experience, there are four main factors that matter.

1.       You’ve probably heard the saying, “Location, location, location.” Well, when it comes to the average time it takes to sell a house in Florida, the location is one of the most important factors. Prime locations and bustling city centers typically see faster sales. For example, Tallahassee has median days on the market of 38, while Fort Myers is 81.

2.       The property condition also matters. From what I’ve seen in Florida (and other states for that matter), a well-maintained home that doesn’t need to be repaired is a heck of a lot more appealing to buyers. Not only that but if there are upgrades to appliances and energy-efficient features—the sales process might be faster than normal.

3.       Real estate trends matter. I like to follow the saying, “The trend is your friend.” When it comes to selling a house in Florida, the trend will impact how long it takes for you to sell your home. For example, in a seller’s market, where buyers are fiending to buy properties, homes will sell quicker than usual. However, in a buyer’s market when there are more houses on the market, the selling process can take longer.

4.       Seasonality also plays a role. From what I’ve seen in Florida, the best time to sell a house is in the Spring and early summer. The reason is—families prefer to avoid disrupting their kids’ school year, so there’s more buyer activity.

Key Strategies to Sell a House Faster in Florida

Working in the real estate market as long as I have, you learn a thing or two about how to move a house off the market quickly.

One of the quickest ways to attract more buyers is prepping the home.

Prepping Your Home for Showings in Florida

  • Deep Cleaning and Decluttering: A spotless, clutter-free home creates an inviting first impression. Professional cleaners can ensure every nook and cranny is pristine, which can significantly boost your home’s appeal. According to the National Association of Realtors, a clean home can sell about 10% faster than a comparable property in less pristine condition​.
  • Staging: Professionally staged homes often sell faster and for higher prices because staging helps buyers visualize the potential of the space. The Real Estate Staging Association found that staged homes spend more than 70% less time on the market compared to non-staged homes.
  • Landscaping: First impressions matter, and curb appeal is critical. Simple tasks like mowing the lawn, planting flowers, and ensuring the exterior is tidy can significantly increase your home’s attractiveness. Fun fact: a well-maintained garden can add up to 28% to the value of a property​.
  • Repairs and Upgrades: Addressing minor repairs and considering upgrades such as energy-efficient appliances or a fresh coat of paint can add value and attract buyers. Energy-efficient homes rated can fetch 2.7% more than traditional homes​.

Next up, the way you price your home matters.

Create a Pricing Strategy to Sell Your Home in Florida

If you really want to sell your house quickly, then you’ll need to be competitive with your pricing. If you set a price that’s way above the current market value or comparable homes, your house may sit a lot longer than the average time it takes to sell a house in Florida. On the flip side, if you price your house around the current market value, or even slightly below, you can potentially start a bidding war. In turn, that can drive the price higher and lead you to sell your house quickly.

Marketing Your House in Florida

You’ve heard the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” When you’re listing your home, having professional photos can make a different in the time it takes to sell. Some studies have shown that photos with high-quality photos sell 50% faster and can increase views only by more than 100%!

Virtual tours can also attract more buyers from out of state. Virtual tours can help increase the time potential buyers spend viewing a home online. That time invested means they’re interested, which can lead to quicker sales.

Timing Your Listing Around the Best Times to Sell a House in Florida

  • Seasonal Analysis: Spring and early summer are prime times for selling a house in Florida. Families often look to move before the new school year, and the pleasant weather encourages more house hunting. During these seasons, homes typically sell 15% faster​.
  • Specific Months: April, May, and June are particularly favorable for quick sales. Homes listed during these months spend an average of 41-43 days on the market, which is significantly shorter than other times of the year​.
  • Day of the Week: Listing your home on a Thursday can be beneficial, as homes listed on Thursdays tend to get more exposure over the weekend, leading to quicker sales. Zillow reports that homes listed on Thursdays sell for more money and 10% faster than those listed on other days.

What’s the Quickest Time It Takes to Sell a House in Florida?

One of my favorite ways to sell a house is through companies that buy house for cash. We Buy Houses Cash Florida IO is one excellent option for sllers needing to offload their property quickly.

We Buy Houses Cash Florida IO

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With We Buy Houses Cash Florida, we make cash offers on homes as-is, even if it’s in need of repairs. Typically, within 24 hours after you reach out, you’ll hear back with an offer. If the offer is accepted it can take as little as 10 to 15 days to close.

It’s a great option for homeowners in dire situations, such as sudden relocation, needing to sell an estate, or facing foreclosure.

The speed and simplicity of the process make it highly appealing for those who prioritize a swift and hassle-free sale over maximizing profit.

The Benefits

  • Speed and Convenience: One of the most significant advantages is the quick turnaround time. Sellers can complete the entire transaction in as little as two weeks, which is substantially faster than the traditional home-selling process that can take months.
  • No Need for Repairs: These companies purchase homes “as-is,” meaning sellers are not required to invest time or money in making repairs or renovations.
  • Simplified Process: The selling process is straightforward, with minimal paperwork and no need for showings or open houses, which can be particularly beneficial for those who need to sell discreetly or without disruption.

Another way to sell a house quickly is to real estate investors or investment groups.

Consider Selling to Real Estate Investors in Florida

Individual real estate investors or investment groups often purchase homes for cash with the intention of renovating and reselling them for a profit. This option is particularly suitable for properties in disrepair or those needing significant updates. Investors are usually more flexible than traditional buyers and can complete transactions quickly, making this an appealing option for many sellers​.

Pros

  • Quick Sales: Like cash buying companies, investors can close deals rapidly, often within a few weeks, providing a quick solution for sellers who need to offload their property swiftly.
  • As-Is Purchases: Investors frequently buy properties in their current condition, sparing sellers the expense and effort of making repairs or improvements.
  • Negotiable Terms: Investors might offer more flexible terms and can sometimes provide higher offers compared to “We Buy Houses for Cash” companies, though still generally below market value to ensure profitability.

Cons

  • Lower Offers: The offers from real estate investors are typically lower than the market value, as they need to account for the costs of renovations and their desired profit margin.
  • Varied Reliability: The reliability and professionalism of real estate investors can vary widely. Sellers need to vet potential buyers carefully to avoid unprofessional or opportunistic investors.

Legal Considerations for Selling a House in Florida

When you’re selling a house in Florida, you’ll need to understand the legalities. I’m no lawyer, but there are some key considerations to keep in mind. As always, it’s best to consult with a reputable lawyer to understand all the nuances.

  • Disclosure Requirements: Florida law mandates that sellers disclose any known issues that could affect the property’s value or desirability. This includes, but is not limited to, the presence of asbestos, lead-based paint, mold, or flood risks. Sellers must complete a Seller’s Disclosure Form, which provides detailed information about the condition of the property and any defects.
  • Pre-Listing Inspections: Conducting a pre-listing inspection can be a strategic move for sellers. This inspection can uncover potential issues that might deter buyers or be used as negotiation points. By addressing these problems upfront, sellers can present a more attractive, problem-free property. Additionally, providing a pre-inspection report to potential buyers can build trust and speed up the closing process​.
  • Title Issues: Ensuring that the title is clear is crucial. Sellers must provide a marketable title, free of liens and encumbrances. It’s advisable to work with a title company or real estate attorney to conduct a thorough title search and address any issues before listing the property. This can prevent delays and complications during the sale.
  • Homeowners Association (HOA) Regulations: If the property is part of an HOA, sellers need to provide relevant documents and information about HOA fees, regulations, and any pending assessments. Buyers need to be fully aware of the rules and financial obligations they will inherit. Failure to disclose this information can lead to legal disputes and potential loss of sale​.

Maximizing Your Home’s Value Before Selling

If you’re still not considering a company like We Buy Houses Cash Florida IO, there are a few extra tips that can help maximize your home’s value if you plan on listing it.

  • Renovations and Upgrades: Investing in key renovations can significantly boost your home’s market value and appeal. Focus on high-impact areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms. Upgrading these spaces with modern fixtures, new countertops, and energy-efficient appliances can yield a high return on investment. Simple cosmetic updates like fresh paint, new flooring, and updated light fixtures can also make a big difference​.
  • Curb Appeal: First impressions are crucial. Enhancing your home’s curb appeal can attract more buyers and potentially increase the sale price. This includes maintaining the lawn, adding landscaping features like flowers and shrubs, and ensuring the exterior is clean and inviting. According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, homes with high curb appeal sell for an average of 7% more than similar homes without it.
  • Energy Efficiency: Today’s buyers are increasingly interested in energy-efficient homes. Adding features such as double-pane windows, improved insulation, and energy-efficient appliances can make your home more attractive. Not only do these upgrades reduce utility costs, but they also reflect a commitment to sustainability, which can be a selling point​.
  • Smart Home Technology: Incorporating smart home technology can set your property apart from others. Features like smart thermostats, security systems, and automated lighting are becoming more popular among buyers. These technologies not only offer convenience but can also enhance the home’s energy efficiency and security, making it more appealing to tech-savvy buyers.

Final Thoughts on How Long Does It Take to Sell a House in Florida

Selling a house in Florida can be a complex and lengthy process, influenced by numerous factors such as location, property condition, market trends, and seasonality. On average, homes in Florida take around 64 days to sell, but this can vary significantly by city. For instance, houses in Miami average 64 days on the market, while those in Naples can take up to 86 days. To sell your house efficiently, it’s crucial to understand these dynamics and prepare your home accordingly.

Factors such as prime location, property condition, and market trends play a pivotal role in determining how quickly a house sells. Strategic home preparation, competitive pricing, and effective marketing are essential to attract buyers and expedite the sale. Moreover, timing your listing during peak seasons and being flexible with terms can further enhance your chances of a quick sale.

For those seeking a swift and hassle-free transaction, selling to a cash buyer, such as We Buy Houses Cash Florida IO, can be an excellent option. These companies offer several advantages, including a quick turnaround time, the convenience of selling the home as-is, and a simplified selling process with minimal paperwork and no showings.

we buy houses for cash in florida any time

Don’t wait any longer to sell your house in Florida. Contact We Buy Houses Cash Florida IO today for a fast, fair cash offer on your home. Contact us here or call us now to learn more and get started on your quick and easy home sale process.

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About Adam Smith

Adam Smith spent the past 5 years in the Florida real estate industry helping homeowners sell their homes for cash, fast. When he's not looking for homes to buy for cash, he enjoys watching sports and shooting hoops in and playing golf in North Miami.