This is one of the first questions sellers ask me — and it's a reasonable one. You have a life to plan around. Maybe you're relocating, downsizing, or trying to time the purchase of your next home. The answer matters.
The honest answer is: it depends on three things — price, condition, and the market you're selling in. Let me give you the real numbers, both nationally and here in Fairfield County.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) March 2026 Existing-Home Sales Report, the national median time on market is currently 41 days — meaning half of all homes sell faster than that, and half take longer. That's up from 36 days in March 2025, reflecting a market where buyers are taking more time to make decisions.
Fairfield County — particularly the towns of Westport, Greenwich, Darien, and New Canaan — consistently outperforms national averages. In our market, well-priced homes in good condition are routinely going under contract in 15 to 25 days, sometimes faster. I've had listings here receive multiple offers within 72 hours of going live.
Pre-market prep (1–3 weeks): Photography, repairs, staging, CMA review.
Active listing to accepted offer (15–40 days): In Fairfield County, expect the better end for well-priced homes.
Accepted offer to closing (30–45 days): Attorney review, inspection, appraisal.
Total: approximately 7–12 weeks.
Overpricing is the biggest issue. Deferred maintenance, tenants, estate situations, and title issues can also add weeks.
"The sellers who close the fastest are the ones who made the hard decisions early — priced it right, addressed the obvious repairs, and let professionals do the marketing."
Cash buyers can close in as little as two weeks. In the luxury segment above $1.5 million, cash transactions are common.
I can give you a realistic timeline and pricing range for your specific home, neighborhood, and current market conditions. Free, no obligation, and I'll give you the honest answer even if it's not what you want to hear.
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