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Days on Market
The number of days a property listing has been active before going under contract.
Definition
Days on Market (DOM) measures the time between when a property is listed for sale or rent and when it goes under contract or is leased. Lower DOM indicates high demand and competitive pricing, while higher DOM may signal overpricing, property issues, or weak market conditions. Average DOM varies significantly by market, price point, and season. Investors use DOM data to assess market health, calibrate offer strategies, and set realistic expectations for how quickly they can lease a property. A property with significantly higher DOM than the market average warrants investigation — it may represent an opportunity if the issue is price-related, or a red flag if there are underlying problems.
Related Terms
Absorption Rate
The rate at which available properties are sold or rented in a market over a given period.
Comparable Sales (Comps)
Recently sold properties similar in size, condition, and location used to determine a property's market value.
Fair Market Value
The price a property would sell for on the open market between a willing buyer and seller.
Vacancy Rate
The percentage of time a rental property is unoccupied and not generating income.
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