Selling your home is a complex, multi-step process that calls for the expertise of a Real Estate Agent. There are many things you’ll need to consider, and to help you through it, here’s a general overview on what to expect and prepare.
Get Your Finances in Order
Don’t worry if you’re still paying off your mortgage, there are several options depending on what type of mortgage you have. However, you’ll need to talk to your lender before you can proceed.
Meet With a Real Estate Agent
It’s important to partner with a Real Estate Agent you feel completely comfortable with. Don’t fall for the trap of partnering with the first Real Estate Agent who suggests the highest asking price, or is the most visible. Shop around. A good Real Estate Agent can help you prepare and price your home to sell, will provide valuable information and guidance, and has in-depth knowledge of the market.
You should ask questions about the type of services they offer – if they provide professional staging, professional photography, whether or not they use drone photography, and what strategies they will use to market your property (social media, open houses, third party websites, networks, etc).
A reputable Real Estate Agent will provide ethical, professional service and will always place your best interests at the forefront.
Listing Your Home
Pricing your home too low or too high is not an option. Setting a fair price will attract more potential buyers, and give your home more exposure. Your Real Estate Agent should be able to explain to you the multitude of factors influencing pricing, including: competitive pricing, current market stats, and of course the estimated value of your home.
Marketing And Promotion
The next step will be to sign a Listing Agreement, which gives your REALTOR® permission to represent you and to post your property on MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Once your REALTOR® helps you prepare and stage your home, they will arrange for the professional photographs to be taken. They’ll then begin marketing your home through a variety of mediums — digital and traditional — and inform other REALTORS® (representing buyers) that your property is on the market.
Closing
After the hard work of marketing and promoting your home pays off, you’ll hopefully have a few offers on the table. Once you’ve accepted an offer, your buyer will want to conduct a home inspection and (potentially) negotiate the cost of any repairs. Finally, your lawyer and Real Estate Agent will walk you through the paperwork and legal bits needed to close.
Congratulations! With the sale of your home complete, you can now begin looking for a new place.