Every sale is different, but most New York sales follow the same stages. Here’s what to expect and roughly how long each step takes.
| Stage | Typical time |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare and price | 1–4 weeks |
| 2. Market and show | 30–90 days |
| 3. Accept an offer and sign the contract | 1–3 weeks |
| 4. Buyer financing, appraisal, and board review | 4–8 weeks (longer for co-ops) |
| 5. Closing | 1 day |
1. Prepare and price
We review recent comparable sales to set your asking price, and you get the home ready: repairs, decluttering, and staging. Hire a real estate attorney now so they’re ready when an offer comes in. See our Seller’s Checklist.
2. Market and show
Your listing goes live with professional photos across major platforms. We schedule showings and open houses and report back on feedback. Pricing right from day one is the biggest factor in how long this stage lasts.
3. Offer and contract
We negotiate offers with you. In New York, an accepted offer isn’t binding until both sides sign a contract. Your attorney drafts it, the buyer’s attorney reviews it, and the buyer usually pays a deposit (often 10%) held in escrow when the contract is signed.
4. Financing, appraisal, and board review
The buyer’s lender orders an appraisal and issues a mortgage commitment. For co-ops, the buyer submits a board package and interviews with the board, which often adds several weeks. Condos usually need the building to waive its right of first refusal.
5. Closing
The buyer does a final walkthrough, then everyone signs, funds are transferred, your mortgage is paid off, and you hand over the keys. Sellers usually pay the broker’s commission and the state and city transfer taxes at closing.
Want a timeline for your property? Contact us.