"How long will it take to sell my house?" is the question I hear most from South Jersey sellers. The honest answer: it depends on price, condition, and timing, but the steps are always the same. Here is the timeline I walk every seller through.

Step 1: Getting ready (1 to 4 weeks)

This is where you decide on a price, handle small repairs, declutter, and get photos taken. It is also when I contact your town about any resale certificate or inspection you will need. A free home value report is a good place to start.

Step 2: On the market (varies)

Your home goes on the MLS and in front of buyers everywhere. Homes that are priced well and show well tend to attract the most interest in the first couple of weeks. If you get no showings, the price is almost always the reason, and we adjust.

Step 3: Offer and contract review (3 business days)

When you accept an offer and the contract is signed, New Jersey's attorney review period begins. It typically runs three business days. In South Jersey most buyers and sellers do not hire an attorney, but you always have the right to, and this is the window to do it. Learn more in my post on whether you need a lawyer to sell a house in NJ.

Step 4: Inspection and negotiation (about 1 to 2 weeks)

The buyer's inspection usually happens in the first week or so after the contract. Repair requests or credits are negotiated here. If you are weighing fixing versus selling as-is, read my guide to selling as-is in New Jersey.

Step 5: Appraisal, mortgage, and title (about 3 to 5 weeks)

If the buyer has a mortgage, the lender orders an appraisal and finishes underwriting while the title search is completed. Cash purchases move faster, but be careful with cash offers. Here is what to know before accepting a cash offer.

Step 6: Town certificate and final walk-through

Your town's certificate of occupancy, if required, needs to be in hand before closing. See how the Certificate of Occupancy works in South Jersey. The buyer then does a final walk-through, usually within a day or two of closing.

Step 7: Closing day

You sign the deed and closing documents, the buyer's funds are delivered, and you hand over the keys. From signed contract to closing, many sales take roughly 30 to 60 days, depending mostly on the buyer's financing. If you need a specific date, tell me early and we plan around it.

What speeds things up?

  • Pricing correctly from day one
  • Having repairs and the town certificate lined up before you list
  • Having your mortgage payoff and paperwork ready
  • Choosing a buyer with strong financing, not just the highest number
  • Working with an agent (and an attorney, if you use one) who answers the phone

Thinking about selling soon?

I have helped South Jersey homeowners for 23 years. See how I help sellers, then pick your town: Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Mount Laurel, Marlton, Voorhees, Cinnaminson, Maple Shade, or Delran. Or call me at 856-220-1874 and we will build a timeline for your move.

Timelines are general estimates and every sale is different.

Jerry Mac
Keller Williams Realty
856-220-1874
www.southjerseyrealty.com