Deciding whether or not to sell your home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. While it seems like a complicated process, it doesn’t have to be. In fact, the key to a smooth home sale is in Step 1, finding an agent who understands your needs and wants and has a system to ensure the process is catered to you.
We have designed a guide to help you navigate this process with as little stress as possible. Reach out and we are happy to send a more detailed Seller Checklist.
Getting Started
Choose a Real Estate Agent. Interview a few agents and see if their personality matches your needs/wants. You want to “click”!
- Qualifications your agent should have:
- Ask about their process (or system) for selling your home
- Local market knowledge
- Good reviews or testimonials
- Financial Knowledge – they can walk you through the numbers!
- Works full time in the industry
- Great time management and communication skills (ie. did they show up on time & prepared? Do they communicate with you in a way that you understand and feel comfortable with?)
- Network connections (Effective real estate agents rely on their relationships. Do they work with other agents regularly?)
- They should ask about your Housing Goals and future vision
- Ask about their marketing strategies (ie. preparing your home for the market, photography, advertising, pricing the home)
- Create a list of 10 things you LOVE about your home to share with your agent
Researching the Market
Plan your timeline for selling. Walk through the home with your agent to determine if any repairs or renovations may increase sale value. Discuss the value of staging and pre-listing home inspections. With your agent, determine the best strategies to get top dollar for your home.
Preparing for a Sale
Deep clean your home (we cover this for all clients!) and declutter to remove personal items. Discuss showings and open houses. Improve the landscaping and curb appeal. Your agent will schedule high quality photography and/or videography during this time. Discuss all of the components of the marketing plan with your agent.
Negotiating Offers
Your agent will negotiate offers on your behalf. Prepare for the possibility of multiple offers. Choose one based on all factors taken into consideration (closing date, conditions, etc).
Closing an Offer
Allow access to the home for any buyer inspections, hire a lawyer to represent you in the transaction, and agree with the buyers to any repairs or changes to the agreement before they remove their conditions.
The Final Stages
Pack your things and get ready to move on to your next chapter! Sign final documents at the lawyers office. Celebrate because you just sold your home!
Download the Home Selling Checklist