Hire an agent who knows the market. Homeowners might be tempted to avoid hiring a real estate agent to save on paying the real estate commission and instead sell their home as “for sale by owner,” or FSBO. An experienced agent earns the fee, however, by exposing your house to the broadest audience to garner the best offers possible, and negotiating on your behalf. If you go it alone, you’ll have to personally manage the preparation of your home, marketing it, reviewing buyers’ offers, making sense of complex contract jargon, and handling all of the negotiations and closing details.
Set a timeline for selling your home. Selling a house is a major undertaking that can take as long as two to four months from start to finish — or much longer depending on local market conditions.
Get a pre-sale home inspection. A pre-sale home inspection can be a wise upfront investment, but it’s optional.
Get professional photos. A professional photographer, with a strong portfolio, knows how to make rooms appear bigger, brighter, and more attractive. The same goes for your lawn and outdoor areas. Dimly lit online photos can turn off homebuyers before they even have a chance to read about your home. Luckily, professional photography services are included with all of my listings at no charge!
Set a realistic price. Even in competitive markets, buyers don’t want to pay more than what the comparables, or “comps” show, so it’s crucial to get it right the first time. Pricing too high can backfire while underestimating the home’s value might cause you to leave money on the table. A knowledgeable realtor can set the right price for your home.
Put your house on the market. You’ve heard of curb appeal, but professionals say online appeal is now even more important. After a buyer has viewed the photos and information, they will want an in-person showing. Generally, buyers are accompanied by their own real estate agent to view your home. Make yourself scarce when potential buyers come to view your home. Let them imagine themselves in the space, free from the distraction of meeting and talking to you.
Review and negotiate offers. After your home officially hits the market and buyers have seen it, ideally the offers will start rolling in. This is where your real estate agent is your best advocate and go-to source for advice. Outside of price, there are many other options to consider, such as the type of financing (which can make or break a deal). Click here to request my listing packet for more information on this.
Accept an Offer and Begin the Road to Closing The contract to the closing part of the process can be the longest and most labor-intensive. This is where your realtor comes in to guide you and coordinate all of the various items required for closing: collecting documents, scheduling closing with a trustworthy attorney (who will close on time), coordinating with the buyer’s agent, ordering termite bond, and/or transfer, ordering title work and much more!
Closing Day! Bring your ID to closing at the closing attorney’s office. The property officially transfers to the buyer at the closing table. Congratulations!