When people ask how long it takes to sell a home, they’re usually thinking about days on market.

But that’s only one piece of the timeline.

In reality, selling a home is a process with several phases, and the part most homeowners underestimate isn’t the showings or negotiations.

It’s the prep work that happens before the home ever hits the market.

If you're hoping to sell this year - or even just thinking about it - it helps to understand what the real timeline usually looks like.

Phase 1: Preparation (2–6 Weeks)

This is often the most labor-intensive steps of the process, but also the most critical - especially in the Brunswick County, NC market where buyers are discerning.

Depending on the home, this might include:

• Decluttering and organizing (it always includes this)

• Small repairs or maintenance

• Touch-up paint

• Landscaping refresh

• Professional cleaning

Some homes are ready in two weeks. Others take a little longer if sellers want to tackle larger projects first.

And while you're sprucing and refreshing you're home, I'll be making plans for staging, photography and marketing.

The key idea: the work done here directly impacts how quickly the home sells later.

Phase 2: Listing + Showings (1–4 Weeks)

Once the home is live on the market, things often move quickly - especially in desirable coastal markets like Southport, Oak Island, and the surrounding Brunswick County areas.

During this phase:

• Buyers tour the home

• Showings and open houses take place

• Offers begin coming in

Some homes receive offers in a few days. But it's important to remember the median days on market (currently at 100 in Brunswick County) and not get discouraged. Your agent can help you make additional changes based on feedback and continue to market.

Pricing, presentation, and timing all play a role.

Phase 3: Under Contract (30–45 Days)

After an offer is accepted, the transaction moves into the contract period.

This stage typically includes:

• Home inspection

• Negotiations on repairs

• Appraisal

• Loan approval

• Title work

• Final walkthrough

Most financed purchases take about 30–45 days to close, though cash purchases can sometimes move faster.

Why Starting Early Matters

Many homeowners reach out thinking they need to wait until they’re “almost ready.”

In reality, the best time to start the conversation is before you think you need it.

That early planning allows time to:

• Prioritize the updates that matter most

• Avoid rushed decisions

• Position the home for the strongest possible launch

And that’s often what leads to the smoothest sales—and the best outcomes.

Thinking About Selling?

If selling this year is on your radar, even loosely, it’s never too early to start mapping out the timeline.

Every home (and every seller) is different, but having a clear plan makes the entire process far less stressful.

And usually, far more successful.