Why Some Homes Sell in Days — and Others Sit for Months

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If you’ve been watching the West Covina real estate market or browsing homes for sale in the San Gabriel Valley, you’ve probably seen it happen: two properties in the same neighborhood, similar in size and price — one sells in under a week, and the other sits for months.

It’s not just luck, and it’s not always about price. As a local REALTOR® who’s helped buyers and sellers navigate this market, I can tell you: a few key factors can make all the difference in how quickly your home sells.

1. First Impressions Matter — Especially Online

In today’s real estate market, buyers often see your home online before they step through the door. Poor-quality listing photos can cost you showings before you even get started.

Professional real estate photography is your first marketing tool. Bright, well-composed images and thoughtful staging (or even virtual staging) help buyers imagine themselves living there — a critical step in making your listing stand out among homes for sale in West Covina or anywhere in the San Gabriel Valley.

2. Strategic Pricing Drives Demand

Overpricing is one of the most common reasons homes stay on the market too long. When priced correctly, your home can attract multiple offers and potentially sell over asking.

In competitive areas like West Covina and San Gabriel Valley, pricing isn’t guesswork — it’s a strategy based on recent sales, market trends, and buyer behavior.

3. Tell the Home’s Story

Numbers and stats matter, but buyers connect emotionally. Sharing the unique aspects of your home — a peaceful backyard, a sunny breakfast nook, or a history of family gatherings — can set your listing apart from others in the local housing market.

4. Timing and Market Cycles

While spring and early summer often bring more buyers, serious house hunters shop year-round in Southern California. Understanding your local real estate cycle can help you time your listing for maximum visibility and minimal competition.

5. The Realtor You Choose Matters

An experienced West Covina real estate agent knows how to position your home for a fast sale. From professional marketing to strong negotiation, having the right agent can turn a “90 days on the market” listing into a “sold in two weeks” success story.

Selling Fast Is About Strategy, Not Luck

If your home has been sitting without offers, the issue may not be the property, it could be the presentation, pricing, or marketing strategy.

If you’re ready to sell, I’d love to help make your home one of the “sold in days” stories.

📩 Contact me at TessMarquez.com | (626) 712-5156 or call/text anytime!

By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist | TessMarquez.com