Selling a home in Lehigh Valley is no small task, and the time required can vary significantly depending on the approach you take. Working with a real estate agent often extends the timeline due to preparation, marketing, and closing procedures. However, opting for a direct sale can expedite the process and may also be a more cost-effective route. Read on to discover how different selling methods can affect the time it takes to sell—and ultimately how that timeline impacts you financially.
The Traditional Listing Process
When selling your home through a traditional listing, several factors come into play that can prolong the process. Although this route might yield a higher offer, it often involves unpredictable timing and added expenses along the way. Here’s what to expect if you list your home with a Lehigh Valley agent.
If You List…
Preparing Your Home for the Market
Before your home hits the market, you’ll likely need to invest time and money in cleaning, decluttering, and repairing any areas that may detract from its appeal. Many sellers also stage their homes to attract buyers, which can add to the preparation timeline and cost. Depending on the property’s condition, this phase can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent
Selecting a qualified real estate agent is a process in itself. Rather than hiring the first agent you meet, it’s wise to research, read reviews, and interview multiple agents. Consulting friends or family who recently sold their homes can also be valuable. Finding the best agent for your needs might take several days or even weeks as you weigh options and compare credentials.
Waiting For A Buyer
Once listed, your property’s time on the market depends largely on buyer interest and current market trends in Lehigh Valley. There’s no guarantee that buyers will be lining up immediately, and you may receive offers that are below your asking price, causing further delays if you choose to negotiate or wait for a better offer. It’s hard to plan around this uncertain timeframe, as some properties sell within days while others may remain unsold for months.
Inspection and Appraisal
Once you’ve accepted an offer, the buyer’s lender typically requires an inspection and appraisal. If the appraisal comes in lower than the offer price, the lender may deny financing, delaying the process as the buyer arranges other financing or renegotiates. If the inspection reveals issues, buyers may request repairs or price adjustments. Some sellers prefer to proactively conduct an inspection before listing, though this adds time and expense upfront.
Escrow Process
After agreeing on the sale price and addressing inspection findings, your home will enter escrow. The escrow period generally lasts between two to four weeks but can extend longer depending on contingencies and buyer requirements. During this phase, the buyer’s lender finalizes loan funding, and both parties work to meet the agreed-upon terms.
Closing
Once escrow is complete, the buyer and seller must arrange a convenient date to finalize the transaction. This final step involves meeting at a title company to review and sign paperwork. Only after this step is the sale officially complete, and you’ll hand over the keys. The closing process itself may take a few days, depending on each party’s availability.
The Direct Sale Alternative
Get An Offer
When you sell directly to iBuyLehigh, you will get an offer right away. It is then up to you to decide if it is the right choice for you. We understand you might need some time to think or run the numbers. We will never pressure you into a sale.
Sold
If you choose to accept our offer, the closing can take place in a matter of days. With a direct sale to iBuyLehigh, you will avoid all costs of listing (repairs, commissions, closing costs, etc.) and be able to plan ahead by knowing exactly when the house will close. For many properties in Lehigh Valley, a direct sale is a faster and more cost-effective solution. You will not need to make repairs or hire an agent in order to sell. Before you decide to list, find out if a direct sale is right for you! There is never any commitment!