Quick answer: In real estate, market days (DOM) is the number of days sold under a contract. A house that sits at a hot market for more than 30 days, or a day for more than 60 days at a late market may not only raise buyer questions, but also show opportunities for negotiation. The DOM is calculated by counting the number of days from the first MLS list date to the accepted offer.
Key takeout
According to Redfin, the national median Dom is currently 43 days, rising seven days a year.
Stock increased 14% year-on-year, but homes that exceeded prices fell to 29%.
For buyers, high DOM can raise questions, but it can also present unique negotiation opportunities.
What does the number of days in the real estate market mean?
Market Days (DOM) refers to the number of days a house is sold before a contract is signed. This starts on the first day when the property is listed in multiple listing services (MLS) and ends once the seller accepts the offer. DOM is a widely used metric for measuring demand, competitiveness and price.
As of July 2025, the national median was 43 days, about a week longer than last year’s average. Homes usually signal a cooling market where sales are longer and buyers have more leverage. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, in May 2025, property remained in the market for an average of 51 days, highlighting the shift towards slower sales.
For more context on market changes, see Redfin’s guide. Is it finally a buyer’s market? This is how to communicate.
How many days are you too long?
What is considered “too long” depends on the local market. Nationally, the current average is 43 days. In a fast-paced seller market, over 30 days can cause buyers’ concern. In a well-balanced or slow market, homes sitting on a day of 60 or more days are seen as lagging behind comparable properties.
example:
Florida: The median DOM is 75 days, suggesting an extended sales timeline. Texas: The median DOM is 58 days, from last year to the 12th.
Buyers should see the long DOM as a signal to investigate pricing, condition, or location, and also as a negotiation opening.
How to calculate your real estate DOM
To calculate the DOM, count the dates from the first MLS list date of the property until the contract is concluded. For example, if your home is listed on July 1st and you accept the offer on July 20th, your DOM will be 19 days.
Remember: Relistings can reset your DOM, so it’s important to check your price history and list any changes to the big picture.
Redfin agents can help you to check your property’s price history and DOM trends to uncover hidden insights.
For more information, see here: How to negotiate when buying a house.
Why is market day important for buyers?
If the list remains longer than the equivalent house, the buyer often assumes something is wrong. The general perception is:
Overprice: High DOM often indicates that the asking price is too ambitious. Hidden Issues: Buyers may suspect structural issues, outdated features, or costly repairs. Reducing competition: If offers are low, it may indicate a negotiation opportunity.
Why can long doms become hidden opportunities?
While the attention is natural, buyers should also recognize the potential benefits of long DOM lists.
Room to negotiate: Sellers may be flexible with prices and concessions. Reduced pressure: Buyers may take longer to inspect and due diligence. Market Change: DOM rising in a particular region creates leverage for buyers.
Tips for Buyers to Rate High Dom Properties
If you are considering a home with a longer DOM, approach it strategically.
Please check the price history. Check if there are reductions on the list. Please undergo a thorough inspection. Remove any major issues before moving forward. Compare the comps. Reviews recently sold a nearby home for pricing. Ask why they aren’t selling it. Agents can often reveal reasons such as timing, location, and cosmetic concerns. Use the DOM in negotiations. It utilizes high DOM to request favorable conditions such as closure costs support and repairs.
For more strategies, see Redfin’s Guide: How to Buy How to Negotie To who House.
FAQ
What is considered a high DOM?
It depends on the market. Nationwide, the house has been sitting for about 43 days. In a hot market, over 30 days can raise questions, but if the market slows down, over 60 days can be normal.
Does a high DOM always mean something is wrong?
That’s not necessarily the case. This could reflect excessive prices in the region, seasonal timing, or limited buyer demand.
How do I calculate the DOM?
Count the days between the first MLS list date and the date the house has a contract. Be aware of relisting and price changes that may reset the clock.
Can buyers get better deals in a long home?
Often, yes. Sellers with a higher DOM may be more willing to accept lower offers and concessions.
Final Thoughts
For buyers, DOM is an important signal, but not the entire story. High DOM may raise concerns, but it can also present unique opportunities. With proper investigation, inspection and negotiation, buyers can turn long DOMs into advantage.
