Wondering why some Deerfield homes go under contract in a flash while others linger? If you track listings, you have likely noticed Days on Market (DOM) can look confusing. You want a clear way to read that number so you can set expectations, price smartly, and move with confidence. This guide breaks down what DOM actually measures, what it misses, and how pricing and presentation in Deerfield can change it. Let’s dive in.
What DOM really measures
DOM and CDOM, in plain English
- Days on Market (DOM) is the count of days a property is listed on the MLS as active until it goes under contract or is removed. It is a timing signal, not a quality score.
- Cumulative Days on Market (CDOM) adds together multiple listing periods for the same property (for example, cancel then relist). Some MLSs label this Total DOM.
MLS numbers vs portal numbers
- Standard MLS DOM typically counts from the active date to the pending or sold date.
- Some MLSs reset DOM when a home is relisted unless CDOM is tracked. That can make a relisted home look newer than it is.
- Major portals may display their own DOM based on their data rules. Portal figures can differ from MLS due to update timing and whether prior history is shown.
Limits you should know
- DOM does not explain the “why” behind a long or short timeline. Price, condition, access for showings, and marketing all play roles.
- DOM reflects market conditions and seasonality. It is a lagging indicator and should be paired with current inventory, price reductions, and list to sale ratios.
- Cosmetic resets can distort a single listing’s DOM. Neighborhood level DOM is more reliable when CDOM is included.
Median vs average DOM
Which tells the truer story
- Median DOM shows the middle experience and is less affected by outliers. In Deerfield, where homes range from updated move ups to older inventory, the median often reflects what a typical seller or buyer will face.
- Average (mean) DOM includes the weight of very long sitting homes. Use it when you want the impact of stale listings included, such as for modeling total time on market.
How to compare over time
- Compare median DOM month over month and year over year, ideally in the same season, to account for spring surges and winter slowdowns.
- Pair DOM with median sale price, months of inventory, and list to sale price ratio for context.
Pitfalls to avoid
- High average DOM but low median DOM often means most homes sell quickly while a few sit far longer (special condition or overpricing).
- Low median DOM with frequent price cuts can mean well priced homes move fast while others trade later after reductions.
How price and presentation change DOM in Deerfield
Price positioning matters most
- Pricing at or just below well supported comps usually draws faster showings and offers. This is especially true in areas near commuter options or central amenities.
- Overpricing increases DOM because buyers filter you out or wait for cuts.
- Watch price bands buyers search by (for example, under key round numbers). Being just over a common filter can shrink your audience.
- Early price strength attracts attention. Repeated reductions signal motivation and can invite lower offers.
Presentation, staging, and marketing
- High quality photos, floor plans, and 3D tours boost early traffic and can shorten DOM. Clear photos of functional spaces like basements and yards matter in the suburbs.
- Accurate, detailed descriptions that highlight commute options (Metra, highways), proximity to schools, and key upgrades help reach the right buyers faster.
- Make showings easy. Limited access often slows momentum.
- Homes needing updates usually carry longer DOM unless priced for condition.
Local timing and seasonality
- Spring is commonly the busiest period in suburban Chicago. Expect shorter DOM then, and longer timelines around winter and holidays.
- Timing around the school year can influence demand for family focused buyers who want smoother moves.
Market conditions to watch
- Low inventory tends to reduce DOM across the board. High inventory increases DOM and price sensitivity.
- Interest rate changes can quickly expand or shrink the active buyer pool. Higher rates often lengthen DOM in price sensitive segments.
Relisting and reductions
- Multiple reductions are a red flag that usually correlates with longer remaining time to contract.
- Relisting to reset DOM can be misleading. CDOM and property history reveal the full story, which informed buyers and agents will check.
How to use DOM in Deerfield
For sellers: reduce DOM and protect price
- Before listing: request a current CMA using Deerfield comps. Set list price inside buyer search bands and within recent sale ranges.
- Prepare the home: declutter, complete repairs, and use professional photography. Consider staging targeted to likely buyer needs (commute, flexible spaces, outdoor living).
- Time the market if you can: spring or early fall often produces faster movement.
- Watch early signals: if showings and online views are light after 10 to 14 days, adjust price or marketing.
- Avoid “reset” tactics. Informed buyers look at history and CDOM.
For buyers: read DOM with context
- Do not assume long DOM equals an easy deal. Review price history, condition, disclosures, and any inspection notes.
- Pair DOM with other signals: number of reductions, days since last cut, neighborhood list to sale ratios, and current inventory.
- Tactics by scenario:
- Low DOM and fresh listings: expect competition. Be pre approved and ready to move.
- Long DOM with reductions: explore negotiation room, then confirm no hidden issues through inspections and due diligence.
- Ask your agent for CDOM and full listing history. Portals may not show it all.
Red flags to investigate when DOM is long
- Repeated reductions or back to back relists.
- Disclosures, permits, or infrastructure notes that changed mid listing.
- Unusual financing, title, or HOA items in agent remarks.
- Location specific factors like planned developments or traffic changes.
Compare by Deerfield micro market
- Do not compare a large lot home far from transit with an in town listing. Compare DOM within similar segments (beds, lot size, proximity to transit, school boundaries) for clearer insight.
Where to get accurate DOM for Deerfield
Best sources
- The local MLS serving Deerfield has the most accurate DOM and CDOM. An agent can run neighborhood level CMAs and supply school district based snapshots.
- Illinois REALTORS and local associations offer regional context.
- Lake County property records help verify ownership history and permits when MLS history is incomplete.
Use public portals carefully
- Portals provide quick checks, but their DOM can lag and often lacks CDOM. Always verify against MLS reports.
Practical tips for data minded readers
- Ask for a downloadable CMA with median DOM, months of inventory, and list to sale ratios for your target micro neighborhood.
- Request CDOM and complete price history for any property you are evaluating.
- When comparing trends, compare the same season year over year for a fair read.
Key takeaways
- DOM is a useful signal, not a verdict. Pair it with price history, reductions, list to sale ratios, and inventory.
- In Deerfield, price positioning and strong presentation shorten DOM. Overpricing and limited access lengthen it.
- Use median DOM to understand typical timelines. Check average DOM when you need the effect of stale listings included. Always verify portal numbers against MLS and CDOM.
Ready to price and position your Deerfield home with data and best in class marketing? Reach out to the Abbie Homes Group for a local CMA, presentation plan, and a concierge level launch that protects your time and outcome.
FAQs
What is Days on Market in real estate and how is it counted?
- DOM is the number of days a home is listed as active on the MLS until it goes under contract or is removed; it is a timing measure, not a quality grade.
How is CDOM different from DOM for Deerfield listings?
- CDOM totals multiple listing periods for the same property, which reveals the true exposure time even if the listing was canceled and later relisted.
Is a higher DOM normal in Deerfield during winter?
- Yes, seasonality matters in suburban Chicago; winter and holiday periods typically see longer DOM than the spring market.
How can sellers lower DOM without underpricing?
- Align list price with comps and buyer search bands, use professional photos and staging, make showings easy, and adjust quickly if early traffic is light.
How should buyers use long DOM when making an offer?
- Treat long DOM as a signal to investigate price history and condition, then use verified facts to negotiate while confirming there are no hidden issues.
