Ever wonder why some Los Angeles homes sell in a weekend while others sit for months? If you are planning a sale, that gap can feel confusing and stressful. The difference often comes down to Days on Market, or DOM. In this guide, you will learn what DOM means, how it is measured, how to read it across LA County neighborhoods, and how to use it to time and price your home with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Days on Market, defined
The standard definition
Days on Market (DOM) is the number of days a listing is publicly active in the MLS from the date it goes live until it goes under contract. Many market reports also use “days to pending,” which functions the same for seller timelines.
MLS vs portal numbers
MLS DOM is recorded by the listing agent’s MLS. Public portals can display a slightly different DOM because of feed delays or how they handle off‑market periods. For valuation or pricing conversations, rely on MLS data you receive from your agent.
CDOM and relisting rules
Many MLS systems use Cumulative Days on Market, or CDOM. CDOM keeps counting even if a listing is withdrawn and later re‑listed, which helps prevent simple DOM resets. Policies vary by MLS, so ask how your local system handles resets and relists.
Price changes and status
Price reductions do not restart DOM. If a listing is temporarily off market or withdrawn, whether DOM resets depends on MLS rules. Your agent can confirm how your local CDOM works.
Why definitions matter
A public DOM number can understate true market time if it excludes off‑market gaps. When you compare homes or set pricing, use the MLS CDOM and your agent’s CMA so you have the full picture.
How to read DOM in LA
Common DOM ranges
- 0 to 7 days: Very fast activity. Well‑priced homes can see multiple offers during strong market windows.
- 8 to 30 days: Fast to normal. Pricing is typically competitive and buyer interest is steady.
- 31 to 90 days: Slower traction. Could reflect overpricing, condition, niche appeal, or seasonality. Luxury can run longer due to a smaller buyer pool.
- 90+ days: Often signals a gap between price and buyer expectations, special property features, or title or occupancy constraints.
LA submarkets snapshot
- Westside and prime coastal areas: When priced to market, many homes move within 0 to 30 days. Luxury may take longer.
- Central LA and trendy neighborhoods: Updated smaller homes and condos often sell quickly. Unique or dated homes can linger.
- Beverly Hills, Holmby Hills, Bel Air: Luxury timelines are longer on average. Compare to luxury peers, not entry‑level markets.
- San Fernando Valley suburbs: Many sales fall in the 8 to 45 day range depending on price and condition.
- South Bay and Long Beach: Move‑in ready homes near the coast or transit often land in the 8 to 30 day band. Unusual layouts can take longer.
- San Gabriel Valley and East LA: Well‑priced family homes can see faster sales. Inventory and micro‑market dynamics matter.
- Antelope Valley and farther suburbs: Pricing sensitivity can lengthen DOM in some segments. More affordable properties may move faster.
Season and price effects
Spring is usually LA’s speed season, with lower DOM and more multiple offers. Late fall and winter often run longer. Lower‑priced homes that match broad demand tend to sell faster. As price rises, DOM often increases because the buyer pool is smaller.
The luxury exception
High‑end properties can show long DOM even in a healthy market. A multimillion‑dollar home may take months to find the right buyer. Judge luxury listings against local luxury comps.
Use DOM to plan your sale
Metrics to review
Use DOM as one diagnostic, not the only one. Pair it with:
- Active inventory for similar homes
- Months of supply or absorption rate
- Recent comparable sales and pendings
- Showing feedback, open‑house traffic, and online views
Pricing strategies
- If you want a quick sale: Price competitively from day one and aim to secure strong interest in the first 1 to 2 weeks.
- If you plan to test the market: Expect longer DOM and be ready for strategic reductions. Longer DOM can shift leverage to buyers.
- If your home is unique or luxury: Calibrate against comparable luxury inventory and prioritize broad, targeted marketing.
When DOM is rising
Do not cut price blindly on day 30. First, review data and feedback to isolate the issue. Then consider:
- Fresh professional photos or staging
- Expanded digital and agent outreach
- A well‑planned, noticeable price adjustment rather than repeated small cuts
- A defined decision point at 2 to 4 weeks to evaluate progress
Timing and launch tips
- Spring often delivers faster results for many LA home types.
- Launch late in the week to capture weekend showings. Coordinate with your agent’s local strategy.
Reporting and transparency
Ask your agent how your MLS tracks CDOM and relists. Request a CMA that shows DOM and CDOM for both recent sales and active competition so you can see how buyers will compare options.
When speed matters
If your priority is certainty and a shorter timeline, a direct cash sale can remove the stress of repairs, open houses, and months on market. A professional acquisitions team can make a competitive offer, buy as‑is with no fees, and close on your schedule. If you want a simple path to a fast sale, connect with Coko Acquisitions to receive a 24‑hour cash offer and choose your ideal closing date. Get My Cash Offer Now.
FAQs
What does DOM mean for a Los Angeles home sale?
- DOM is the number of days a listing is active in the MLS before it goes under contract, and it helps you gauge buyer interest and pricing fit in your submarket.
Why do MLS DOM and website DOM sometimes differ?
- Portals can lag or handle off‑market periods differently, so their DOM may not reflect cumulative time; rely on MLS CDOM from your agent for accurate comparisons.
Does a high DOM mean something is wrong with the house?
- Not necessarily; it might indicate overpricing, a niche property, seasonality, or luxury market dynamics rather than a condition issue.
Will a longer DOM lower my eventual sale price?
- Longer DOM often increases buyer leverage and can lead to larger discounts from the original list price compared to quicker sales.
Can I reset DOM by withdrawing and relisting?
- Many MLS systems track Cumulative DOM, which limits simple resets; re‑listing to hide time on market is unreliable and can violate rules.
How should I react if my listing reaches 30 to 60 days with no offers?
- Reassess pricing against current comps, upgrade marketing assets, expand outreach, and consider a clear, strategic price adjustment rather than small repeated cuts.
Where can I find accurate DOM for my neighborhood?
- Ask your agent for an MLS report with DOM and CDOM; public portals can be useful for rough comparisons but may not match MLS data.
