When Is the Best Time to Sell a House in Washington, DC?

What’s the worst time to list a house in Washington, D.C.?

According to Green, the worst time to sell a house in Washington, D.C. is late December to early January. “Many buyers and agents are focused on the holidays or travel, and homes can sit longer during this time. That said, motivated buyers who are looking then are often serious and ready to act — so if the property is priced right, it can still move,” she says.

What seller concessions help close a sale in Washington, D.C.?

To help finalize a sale, many Washington, D.C. sellers offer concessions or credits to make their listings more appealing. According to Green, the most common in her market are credits toward closing costs or repairs.

“In today’s market, we’re also seeing rate buydowns come into play to help ease the cost of borrowing for buyers. Home warranties can offer peace of mind, especially for older properties, and in some cases, sellers may agree to cover transfer taxes or offer flexible closing timelines,” says Green.

Below are typical seller concessions and credits that can help close your Washington, D.C. home sale:

• Assist with some of the buyer’s closing expenses
• Support a short-term mortgage interest rate reduction
• Provide a repair credit to cover problems uncovered during the home inspection
• Cover fees for the buyer’s home inspection or appraisal costs
• Pay the initial months of HOA dues, where relevant
• Offer to cover the commission for the buyer’s real estate agent
• Prepay annual property taxes or homeowners’ insurance for the first year

Insider tips to help sell your house in Washington, D.C.

As a leading real estate professional in Washington, D.C., Green is an expert at guiding home sellers to meet their goals regardless of timing or market conditions.

Here are some of Green’s top recommendations to successfully sell your property:

1. Set the right price initially

Setting an asking price too high can result in your listing becoming stagnant and needing cuts later. A careful pricing approach informed by recent sales (comparable properties) helps attract serious buyer interest and competitive bids right off the bat.

“Price it right from day one. The first 7 to 10 days are critical — this is when your home gets the most attention,” Green says.

2. Select a skilled agent

Partner with a knowledgeable local agent who understands your area’s market dynamics and can assist with pricing, marketing, and negotiation. The right professional knows how to position your Washington, D.C. residence to attract strong offers. According to HomeLight’s data, the top 5% of agents sell homes for 10% more than the typical agent.

3. Prioritize necessary repairs

Address visible concerns such as dripping faucets, broken tiles, or peeling paint — buyers often worry these minor flaws indicate bigger problems. Concentrate on fixes that yield the best return on investment and instill buyer confidence. A reliable Washington, D.C. agent can also advise you on what to leave alone.

4. Maximize curb appeal both physically and digitally

Neat landscaping, a tidy home exterior, and well-lit entrances create strong curb appeal and a memorable first impression in person. Online, high-resolution photos and engaging virtual tours help your Washington, D.C. property stand out as buyers browse listings.

5. Clear out and depersonalize

Eliminate excess items such as bulky furniture, personal pictures, and knick-knacks to make spaces feel larger and more welcoming. A neutral, clean environment enables buyers to picture themselves living there.

“Declutter, depersonalize, and invest in staging if possible. Even small updates — like fresh paint or new lighting — can have a big impact,” Green advises.

6. Provide a home warranty

Including a home warranty can reassure buyers about potential repair expenses, which is especially helpful for older homes in Washington, D.C. It can also make your listing more attractive in a competitive market.

7. Be accommodating with showings

Greater flexibility with showing times often leads to quicker sales. Offering weekend and evening viewing opportunities benefits busy buyers, including those relocating from out of town.

8. Think about staging

Staged residences tend to sell more rapidly and for higher prices because they help buyers envision the property’s potential. Even partial or virtual staging can enhance your listing’s appeal.

Connect With a Top Agent to Sell Your Washington, DC Home

It takes just two minutes to match clients with the best real estate agents, who will contact you and guide you through the process. To connect with an agent, simply tell us a little bit about your property and how soon you’re looking to sell.

Our data shows the top 5% of agents across the U.S. help clients sell their home for as much as 10% more than the average real estate agent.

Find Agent

Answers to other Washington, D.C. home-selling questions

What if I need a fast sale and closing in Washington, D.C.?

While some homes in Washington, D.C. may sell quickly, a fast sale is never guaranteed. If you need to sell quickly or lack the time or funds to complete necessary repairs, you might want to request an all-cash offer via HomeLight’s Simple Sale service.

In just a few minutes, you can fill out a brief questionnaire and secure a no-commitment cash offer within 24 hours. Simple Sale accepts homes in nearly any condition across Washington, D.C., allowing you to bypass staging, open houses, and repairs. With Simple Sale, you can close in as little as 7 days.

What is the biggest mistake Washington, D.C. home sellers make?

Green points out that the top mistake sellers make when selling a house in Washington, D.C. is overpricing. 

“It’s tempting to ‘test the market,’ but this often leads to stale listings, price drops, and lower final sale prices. Buyers in DC are savvy — they know when something is priced correctly, and they respond accordingly,” she says.

Find a top Washington, D.C. agent for a successful sale

The best time to sell a house in Washington, D.C. depends on your goals and circumstances. However, listing your property to ensure a quicker sale at a better price doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right guidance, you can make well-informed choices and avoid common errors.

“A good agent will help you navigate not just the market, but also your personal goals, timing, and concerns. The right guidance can turn a stressful process into a smooth and rewarding one,” Green says.

Partnering with a skilled local agent means having a knowledgeable advisor to support a successful sale. Connect with a top agent today.

If you’re simultaneously buying and selling a home, explore HomeLight’s innovative Buy Before You Sell program. This smart option taps into your home’s equity to simplify the process. Submit a non-contingent offer on your new home and move only once. Watch this short video to learn more. 

Header Image Source: (Ismael Paramo / Unsplash)