Decide When to Sell There are many things to consider when deciding when to sell your home. For example, it is important to take into consideration if it is a “buyer’s market” or a “seller’s market.” Also, you must consider how quickly you need to sell your home, and if you need to sell your current home first or buy a new home first.
Find a Real Estate Agent It is crucial to find a skilled agent that will guide you through the local market, help you price your home competitively, prepare it for showings, and handle every step of the process. Once you choose an agent, you will sign a listing agreement. The Listing Agreement authorizes your agent and brokerage to market and sell your property. It outlines the terms of your working relationship and terms of the sale.
Establish a Price Pricing your property is very important. Your Agent will suggest a list price for your property by comparing similar properties that have recently sold along with evaluating the active listings of similar properties that are currently for sale. If your property is priced right, the property will get a number of showings and will produce offers. If it’s priced too high, you will most likely limit the number of showings, and will scare buyers away, and most likely will end up extending the time on the market and need to lower the asking price.
Prepare to List Before your home is listed, take time to clean thoroughly, declutter, and depersonalize each space. A fresh coat of neutral paint and minor repairs can make a big difference in attracting buyers.
List it Your Agent will take care of listing your property and handle all of the showings.
Offers & Negotiations Your Agent will review each offer and its terms with you and discuss what offer best serves your needs. You will be able to accept, decline, or counter the offers.
Under Contract Once you have accepted the best offer, the buyer will perform any needed inspections or an appraisal if financing is involved.
Closing At closing, the property ownership is officially transferred to the buyers.You will sign documents, pay off outstanding debts and fees, and receive the remaining proceeds from the sale after all costs are deducted. Typically, closings are done by the title insurance company, an attorney, banking institution, or real estate broker.
