How long does it take to sell a house in Belgium?
Discover the factors that influence the selling time of a property in Belgium and how to sell faster.
Comparing oneself to the market when selling alone
You have just put your house or apartment up for sale, and one of the most common questions is the time needed to finalize the sale.
If you are selling without going through an agency, a first approach is to look at online platforms and compare your property to similar listings, ideally ones that are close to you and of comparable size. The date the listings go live gives an indication, even if it does not always reflect the actual time of sale, especially when the price is not aligned with the market.
Price, location, and condition: three major levers
The price is the most determining factor for selling quickly: a price above the market slows down the sale, while a lower price can accelerate the transaction but at the expense of your margin. Generally, after 3 to 4 months without a buyer, a price drop becomes necessary. Conversely, a property at the right price can sell in just 4 weeks, or even less if the market is rising.
The location also plays an important role: proximity to schools, shops, and public transport, or conversely, the appeal of peace in the countryside, directly influences the volume of interested buyers and thus the selling timeframe.
Finally, the condition of the property matters: a home ready to be occupied, with tasteful decor or minor improvements (painting, decoration) can speed up the decision of visitors.
The current market and some concrete examples
The selling time also depends on the economic situation and the market. When demand exceeds supply, a property can sell in a few days, with several buyers competing. Conversely, in a less favorable market, buyers take more time to compare several properties.
It is therefore difficult to give a unique timeframe. For example: in a very favorable market, a house in excellent condition and ideally located can sell in a maximum of 10 days. In a favorable market, a property at the right price, with effective advertising, can sell in 3 to 4 weeks.
