What “Days on Market” Really Means in Valdosta’s Housing Market

When you’re searching for a home, it’s natural to notice how long a property has been listed. Maybe you see a house that’s been on the market for 25 or 30 days and your first thought is, What’s wrong with it? On the other hand, if you’re selling your home, you might worry if your listing hasn’t gotten an offer in the first two weeks.

The truth is, “days on market” (DOM) is one of the most misunderstood pieces of real estate data. In Valdosta’s market, understanding what this number actually tells you, and what it doesn’t, is key to making smart decisions as both a buyer and a seller.

What Is “Days on Market”?

“Days on market” simply refers to the number of days a home has been actively listed for sale before going under contract. In Valdosta right now, homes are averaging around 22 to 28 days on the market before they go pending. That’s a bit longer than last year, when homes were flying off the market in about 15 days.

This shift doesn’t mean homes aren’t selling. It means buyers have more options, are taking their time, and sellers need to be more strategic.

Why a Home Might Sit on the Market Longer

There are a lot of reasons a home could have a higher DOM, and most of them aren’t about something being “wrong” with the property.

• Pricing Strategy: If a home is listed too high, it may take longer to attract the right buyers. A price adjustment often sparks new interest.

• Seasonality: In Valdosta, activity slows a bit in the winter months and picks back up in spring and summer. Timing can impact DOM more than anything about the house itself.

• Marketing Approach: Photos, staging, and online visibility all make a difference. Homes that are marketed well usually sell faster.

• Unique Features: Homes with a very specific style or layout may take longer to find their perfect buyer, even if they’re in great condition.

Why Buyers Should Pay Attention

For buyers, DOM can actually be an advantage. A home that’s been listed for a while might mean the seller is more motivated to negotiate. Maybe they’re willing to help with closing costs or accept a lower offer.

It’s also worth remembering that a home with a higher DOM could be perfectly solid. It might have just started too high on price or went live at a slower time of year. With the right agent guiding you, you can spot opportunities that others overlook.

Why Sellers Should Pay Attention

For sellers, DOM is a signal. The first two weeks of a listing are critical because that’s when buyers are the most active and excited. If your home isn’t getting showings or offers during that window, it may be a sign that the price, presentation, or marketing strategy needs adjusting.

The goal is to create momentum early so your home doesn’t get “stale” in buyers’ eyes. That doesn’t mean slashing the price, but it does mean being realistic about value and working with an agent who knows how to position your property in the current market.

What This Means for Valdosta Right Now

In our local market, longer DOM isn’t automatically bad news. It simply reflects that buyers have more breathing room than they did a year ago. Inventory is up, interest rates have dipped to around 6.35%, and the pace of the market has balanced out.

For buyers, that means opportunity. For sellers, it means strategy. Either way, knowing how to interpret DOM gives you an edge in negotiations and decision making.

Final Word From Me..

Don’t let “days on market” scare you off as a buyer or discourage you as a seller. It’s just one piece of the bigger picture. In Valdosta’s market, context matters. That’s where having the right agent by your side makes all the difference.

📲 Call or text me, Asia Foster, REALTOR® with Century 21 Realty Advisors, at 229.474.9789, and let’s talk about how to make today’s market work for you.

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All real estate information should be independently verified. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Asia Foster, REALTOR®

Century 21 Realty Advisors

📲 229.474.9789

📧 afoster@c21realtyadvisors.com