What’s the Fastest Way to Sell a House in a Competitive Market?
If you’ve been watching the Harford County market over the last year, you’ve probably noticed a shift. In previous years, homes were flying off the market. This year things have cooled a bit. Home buyers are more selective, interest rates are higher, and only the homes that truly stand out are moving quickly.
I know that might sound discouraging, but the good news is that the formula for selling fast hasn’t changed. It’s just more important than ever. From my experience, homes that still get strong interest right away are the ones that are priced right, prepped right, and marketed right.
Price It Right for Today’s Buyers 
In a slower market, thoughtful pricing isn’t optional. It’s the lever that determines how much attention you’ll get in the first week. If your priced too high, your home will sit and will quickly become stale. If you price correctly for current conditions, buyers will recognize the value and will be more likely to submit an offer.
When I price a home, I start by studying what’s happening in each specific Harford County neighborhood. Today’s home buyers compare everything, from condition and upgrades to layout and overall value. Because pricing is so critical, my husband (who is also a Realtor) and I each do our own full analysis separately, then compare our numbers. If we land on the same price, we know we’re on the right track. If we don’t, we talk it through until we understand exactly where the gap is.
Prep the Home So It Outshines the Competition
In this market buyers aren’t willing to take on projects unless the price reflects it. Today’s buyers are busy with work, kids, and everything else on their plates, so the idea of fixing up a home after moving in usually isn’t appealing. The homes selling quickly right now are the ones in genuinely good condition. That doesn’t mean a full renovation. It means focusing on the things that shape a buyer’s first impression.
Some of the biggest impact items include:
• Decluttering so the space feels open
• Fresh, neutral paint
• Handling the small repairs buyers always notice
• Deep cleaning every room
• Updating lighting or hardware when needed
• Making sure the exterior is tidy and welcoming
Buyers want to walk in and feel like the home has been well cared for. When they do, they’re more comfortable making a strong offer sooner. For more information on prepping your home, go to: How do I prepare my house for sale to maximize its value?
Market It With Intention
With fewer buyers actively house hunting, your marketing has to work harder. You want every qualified buyer to see your home, understand the value, and feel compelled to schedule a showing.
Here’s what that looks like in today’s market:
• Professional photography that highlights the home’s strongest features
• Strong online exposure across major platforms
• A polished listing description that focuses on benefits, not just features
• Social media visibility that reaches local buyers
• Local agent networking to get your home on more radars faster
Marketing isn’t about shouting louder. It’s about making sure your listing stands out clearly among others that buyers are scrolling through. For more information, see What digital marketing strategies make home sell faster.
The Bottom Line
Homes aren’t selling at last year’s pace, but the ones priced well, prepared well, and marketed well are still moving quickly. Buyers are choosy, and the homes that stand out for the right reasons rise to the top. Solid strategy matters more now than it ever has. When you combine accurate pricing, thoughtful prep, and strong marketing, you create the conditions for a faster sale and better offers, even in a slower market.
About Leigh
If you’re thinking about selling in Harford County or the surrounding area and want clear, honest guidance, I’m here to help. I’m Leigh Kaminsky, a local Realtor who believes every home deserves careful attention and a custom plan. I take the time to understand your goals, study your neighborhood closely, and walk you through the steps that make the biggest impact.
I also bring a team approach to every listing. My husband, who is also a Realtor, collaborates with me behind the scenes to double check pricing, strategy, and positioning. Together, we make sure no detail is overlooked.
I’m committed to making your sale as smooth and successful as possible. If you’re ready to talk about selling or just want to understand what your home would need in today’s market, reach out anytime.