Should You Sell Your Home This Summer in Des Moines?

Summer is one of the busiest seasons for real estate—but is it the right time for you to sell your home in Des Moines? If you're on the fence, you're not alone. Many local homeowners are evaluating whether listing now will maximize their returns, especially in today's shifting market.

Let’s dive into whether a summer sale makes sense for your goals in 2025.

The Current Des Moines Real Estate Market — Summer 2025

Before listing your home, it’s crucial to understand what’s happening in the local housing market. Here’s a quick look at current trends:

• Inventory levels in the Des Moines metro remain moderate, but not oversaturated.

• Homes priced competitively are selling quickly,most within 30 days.

• Buyer activity is high, fueled by job growth, relocations, and families aiming to settle before the new school year.

• Mortgage rates remain steady but are expected to fluctuate later this year.
  
  

What this means for you:
There’s still strong buyer demand, especially in family-friendly neighborhoods, starter homes, and homes in walkable communities like Beaverdale, Waveland Park, and parts of West Des Moines.

Pros of Selling Your Home This Summer in Des Moines

1. More Buyers Are Actively Looking

Summer attracts serious buyers who are eager to move before fall. Many are relocating for jobs or aiming to settle before school starts. That means more foot traffic and higher chances of competitive offers.

2. Curb Appeal Is at Its Peak

Des Moines homes look their best in the summer—lawns are green, flowers are blooming, and natural light makes interiors shine. First impressions matter, and summer provides a huge visual advantage.

3. Faster Closing Timelines

With more daylight hours and flexible schedules, inspections, appraisals, and closings often move quicker in summer.

4. Potential for Higher Sales Prices

Well-presented homes in Des Moines’ top neighborhoods often receive multiple offers during summer, driving up sale prices—especially if your home is priced right and marketed effectively.

Cons to Consider Before Selling This Summer

1. Increased Competition

You’re not the only one considering a summer sale. More listings can mean more competition, so standing out is key.

Solution: Work with a team that offers professional marketing, expert staging, and strategic pricing—like The dsmSOLD Team.

2. Busy Schedules Can Hinder Showings

Buyers and sellers are often juggling vacations, camps, and events. This can sometimes delay showings or responses.

Tip: Consider flexible showing hours and virtual tours to accommodate summer lifestyles.

3. Higher Expectations from Buyers

With more options, buyers may be pickier and negotiate harder. Homes that need major updates may linger longer unless priced competitively.

Tip: Focus on minor repairs, deep cleaning, and curb appeal to avoid leaving money on the table.

Local Insight from The dsmSOLD Team

At The dsmSOLD Team, we’ve helped hundreds of Des Moines homeowners navigate the summer market. Based on our on-the-ground experience this season:

• Homes in Beaverdale and South of Grand are moving quickly when priced within local comps.
  
  

• Updated kitchens, fresh paint, and staged living spaces are yielding higher offers.
  
  

• We’re seeing increased relocation buyers from across Iowa and neighboring states looking for homes in the $250,000–$450,000 range.
  
  

Hot Tip: If your home falls within this price point, now may be the ideal window to list.

Is Summer the Right Time for You to Sell?

Ask yourself:

• Do you need to move before fall or winter?
  
  

• Can your home be ready for the market in the next 2–4 weeks?
  
  

• Are you looking to take advantage of current buyer demand?

If you answered yes, summer might be your best opportunity.

How to Maximize Your Summer Sale

Here’s how to position your home for success:

✅ Stage for the season: Use light fabrics, fresh greenery, and natural light.
✅ Professional photography: Homes with high-quality visuals perform better online.
✅ Lean into lifestyle marketing: Sell the neighborhood, not just the house—think walkability, parks, and summer activities.
✅ Price it right from the start: Don’t chase the market. Let the data guide your price.

Let’s Talk Strategy for Your Home Sale

Every home is different, and so is every seller’s timeline. Whether you're looking to sell ASAP or simply exploring your options, we’re here to guide you.

Schedule a free, no-pressure home consultation with The dsmSOLD Team today and discover what your home is worth in today’s market.

Selling your Des Moines home this summer could be a smart move—but only if you go in with the right strategy. With buyer demand holding strong and inventory still manageable, now may be your window of opportunity. Just make sure you're working with a team who knows how to market your home for maximum exposure and value.