How Days on Market (DOM) Can Benefit Home Buyers in 2025

Understanding Days on Market (DOM) in Real Estate

In the world of real estate, the term Days on Market (DOM) is more than just a number; it reflects the dynamics of supply and demand in the housing market. Defined as the total number of days a property is listed for sale until it receives an accepted offer, DOM is a vital metric that helps both buyers and sellers gauge a home’s competitiveness. As of September 2025, the national median DOM has risen to 43 days, indicating a shift towards a cooler market where buyers are gaining more leverage.

When Does a High DOM Matter?

The implications of a high DOM can vary significantly depending on the market's temperature. In a fast-paced seller's market, homes sitting more than 30 days may trigger doubts among potential buyers. Conversely, in a slower market, properties lingering for over 60 days might signal a need for adjustments in price, condition, or location. For example, Florida’s median DOM is high at 75 days, which indicates extended selling timelines, while Texas sees a median of 58 days, up 12 days from the previous year. Buyers can leverage this information to negotiate better deals, as properties with high DOM often reveal a home’s desirability and market fit.

Questions to Ask When Reviewing DOM

While evaluating a property with a high DOM, buyers should consider several questions to determine their negotiation stance:

• What is the reason for the prolonged listing? Identifying whether the property’s price, condition, or location is the cause can assist in forming a better negotiation strategy.
• How does this property compare with similar listings? Conducting a comparative market analysis can provide insight into whether the home’s price aligns with the current market conditions.
• Is the property being relisted? Note that if a property has been delisted and re-listed, its DOM may have reset, which could skew your analysis.

Future Trends and Insights in Real Estate

Given the current trends in DOM, experts predict that the real estate market may continue transitioning towards a buyer-friendly climate. Increased inventory (+14% year-over-year) combined with a decrease in sellers achieving above-list prices (now at 29%) means that buyers can think critically about their strategies. More homes becoming available for viewing can lead buyers to feel less urgency in making offers, resulting in more negotiated purchases over time.

Tips for Buyers: Turning DOM Into Opportunity

To effectively use DOM to your advantage, follow these actionable insights:

1. Evaluate Property History: Look into how long a property has been on the market and any prior price reductions or relists. This backstory can provide valuable context for negotiations.
2. Utilize Comprehensive Listings: Use platforms like Zillow, Trulia, and Redfin to access current listings, historical data, and market insights to stay informed about property trends.
3. Work With a Real Estate Agent: A knowledgeable real estate agent can provide personalized insights and help navigate the complexities of high DOM properties.

The Emotional Connection to Home Buying

For many buyers, the decision to purchase a home goes beyond just financials; it is often tied to their hopes and aspirations. Those looking for a real estate investment or their first home may feel a stronger emotional attachment, which can complicate negotiations. Balancing emotions with factual market insights is essential for making sound decisions. Adopting a level-headed approach, even when faced with high DOM homes, can create opportunities that align with one’s goals and budget.

Conclusion

As the real estate landscape continues to fluctuate, understanding and utilizing Days on Market (DOM) can be an essential tool for both buyers and sellers. It offers insights into competitive pricing and the overall market sentiment. For those navigating the intricate world of property transactions, being informed and strategic can lead to rewarding outcomes. Ready to delve deeper into the market trends? Be proactive in your approach, analyze DOM statistics, and work closely with a seasoned real estate professional to maximize your investment.