Life changes happen in all sorts of ways, from the routine to the unpredictable. Whether you need to move quickly because of a job relocation or you’ve spent years planning to upgrade from your starter home to a dream home, today’s Raleigh sellers have options.

Right now, Raleigh’s housing market is thriving, with continued growth and revitalization across the Triangle. And it’s a seller’s market, with most homes selling in under 30 days. That means if you’re ready to sell, you’re in a unique position to capitalize.

This guide will walk you through the steps to sell your Raleigh home so you can make confident, informed decisions along the way.

Ready to sell your house fast? Get a strong cash offer today.

1. Decide how you want to sell

Today’s market offers two primary sale paths: listing traditionally on the open market or selling in cash to an investor off-market. Each has advantages, and your choice should depend on your top priority, whether that’s speed, convenience, or maximum return.

Get a cash offer and move on fast

Cash offers involve selling directly to a buyer, often an investor, before your home ever hits the market. While cash offers are generally lower than full market value, they close quicker and typically eliminate the need for showings or home prep, allowing for an easier sale.

Our Guaranteed Offer program simplifies this route by gathering multiple competitive offers from our trusted investor network. Then your Mark Spain Real Estate agent will guide you through the pros and cons of each cash offer, and explain what you’ll net from the sale.

“We represent the seller in every one of our transactions,” says Ryan Byerly, Director of Sales at Mark Spain Real Estate in Raleigh, “So we're working for their best interest.”

List on the open market to fetch a higher price

When you put your home on the market, you typically list it publicly on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and work with a real estate agent to market it to buyers.

Listing your home on the open market increases the likelihood of competitive offers because you’re marketing to a larger pool of buyers. While this route can involve more up-front prep, like staging, photography, and open houses, it also offers the potential for higher returns.

At Mark Spain Real Estate, we rely on in-depth market data to price your home in a way that attracts buyers. We also offer a stress-free selling experience. That means we avoid costly, involved upgrades and instead focus on a stronger marketing approach.

2. Know Raleigh’s key trends and what buyers want

Once you’ve decided how you’re going to sell, it’s time to start strategizing. Fortunately, Raleigh is “one of the best real estate markets in the country,” according to Byerly. That’s due in large part to how quickly it’s growing.

The job market is a significant draw with booming industries like Professional and Business services, public health, and education. The atmosphere is another plus: reasonable cost of living combined with a vibrant lifestyle draws families and young professionals alike. Byerly states that there is “just always an influx in population moving to Raleigh.”

So, there’s no shortage of potential buyers. What they prioritize largely matches trends across the country: updated kitchens, refreshed primary bathrooms, and organized storage spaces. One Raleigh-specific requirement? Moisture-free crawl spaces.

“Raleigh is notorious for crawl space issues,” Byerly says, and while locals may be used to how the weather impacts them, it can scare off transplants.

3. Consider Raleigh’s seasonality and timing

In Raleigh, Spring has traditionally been the strongest selling season on the market—specifically March through May. Families want to move before the start of the school year.

“If somebody’s moving to a different school district,” Byerly says, “they want to be in there by the Summer.”

Selling then typically slows down in the Summer and Fall, as families settle in and university semesters begin.

When it comes to investors, Byerly says their offers are often strongest during December and January. That’s because they use the slower months to spend excess funds and stock up on housing before the spring rush.

If spring or winter don’t work for your timeline, you still have options. Raleigh home values have appreciated significantly over the last decade, giving sellers flexibility in how and when they sell.

4. Develop your pricing strategy

Getting pricing right can significantly influence your home’s time on the market and its final sale price.

“Pricing is always going to be king,” says Byerly.

Raleigh’s diverse neighborhoods each have their own pricing characteristics. For example, homes that are close to Raleigh’s expanding downtown can bring in premium sale prices, since demand in that area is high and only growing.

Your Mark Spain Real Estate agent will help you determine what pricing style best suits your goals, whether that’s:

Market-aggressive pricing to generate multiple offers quickly
Market-value pricing for maximum exposure
Aspirational pricing for homes with unique features

We’ll also leverage the “coming soon” status. This method of advertising your home before it’s officially listed can help build anticipation among potential buyers while giving you time to prepare your home for sale.

5. Get the house ready for sale

Once you’ve decided how you want to sell, when, and at what price point, it’s time to prepare the house for potential buyers.

“Buyers are being way more critical now,” says Byerly. If the house is priced at or above market value, “they want that puppy to be perfect.”

Start by focusing on what Raleigh buyers value most. Considering Raleigh’s hot summers, well-maintained HVAC systems and energy-efficient features are particularly appealing. Given the area’s emphasis on outdoor living, consider updating features that extend your space outside, such as porches and landscaping.

Though Spring may be the most popular time to sell, it also brings a unique challenge: pollen.

“For about three weeks, everything will be yellow,” Byerly warns.

Hose down porches, add mulch, and ensure the outside is buyer-ready—just be sure to review any Homeowner’s Association rules.

6. Stay ahead of common Raleigh inspection issues

Proactively addressing common inspection issues can save time and reduce stress. Some frequent issues in Raleigh include:

Drainage and grading: Clay soil and heavy seasonal rains can create drainage problems around foundations.
Aging roofing: Harsh weather can damage roofs. Check for missing shingles or repairs.
Older electrical systems: Many older homes have outdated electrical systems not up to code.

A pre-listing inspection can help you address these issues proactively.

7. Prepare disclosures required in Raleigh

North Carolina requires several key disclosures:

Residential Property and Owners' Association Disclosure Statement
Mineral and Oil and Gas Rights Disclosure
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for homes built before 1978)
Flood Risk Disclosure

“We can't help sellers complete the forms, but we like our sellers to answer honestly,” says Byerly.

Your agent will ensure you stay compliant and transparent throughout the process.

8. Market your home to bring in buyers

In Raleigh’s competitive market, strong marketing is essential.

“We're trying to highlight something special about each property,” Byerly says.

We also emphasize the charm of each local community. Mark Spain Real Estate combines:

Social media marketing (responsible for 50% of buyer leads)
MLS promotion
Strong brand recognition

Your agent will also use:

Reverse prospecting
Targeted outreach through our database
Custom messaging for interested buyers

9. Navigate offers and closing

When reviewing offers, consider:

Price
Financing terms
Contingencies
Closing timelines

North Carolina closings require a licensed real estate attorney. Be prepared for:

State excise tax: $1 per every $500 of the sale
Possible county transfer taxes: Land transfer tax info

During due diligence, buyers inspect and finalize financing. Your agent will help you respond to inspection issues and keep the deal on track.

Your home sale, your way

Selling your home is a significant decision, and you deserve clear options. Whether you prioritize speed, convenience, or value, the Raleigh market offers a path that fits your goals.

At Mark Spain Real Estate, we believe relationships matter more than transactions. Your agent will understand your needs and guide you toward the best outcome.

Contact a Mark Spain agent today to learn how we can help you sell confidently and successfully.

Simply enter your home address to get the strongest cash offer on your home.