Steps to Selling a Home

Hire a REALTOR
Studies show that homesellers who use a REALTOR® to represent them generally get a better price than those who sell the home themselves. As your agent, I can give you up-to-date information on critical processes. I can also help you get your home sold at the best price in the right timeframe.

Equally as important, as your agent I can add objectivity to an inherently emotional transaction: the sale of your home.

Before Your Home Is Listed
It's important to have your home in good showing condition before buyers start going through it. Here are some steps to take:

• Touch up interior and exterior paint as needed.
• Install new carpeting and flooring if it appears worn or dated.
• Make sure the front is clean and spruced up – curb appeal will create a favorable first impression.
• Trim bushes and plants as needed, and make sure the lawn is kept mowed and trimmed. In autumn, rake the leaves; in winter, keep the snow shoveled.
• Keep the interior clean, decluttered and odor-free. Eliminate evidence of pets.
• Minimize personal items such as family photos. You want buyers to see themselves living in the home.
• Consider putting excess furniture and belongings in storage. Now's the time to clean out the garage and basement and sell, give away or throw away items you don't need anymore.
• Consider having a pre-listing inspection performed. Buyers will be hiring professional inspectors; here's your chance to address problems in advance.
• Consider engaging a professional stager to give your home the right emotional appeal.

During the Listing Period

• When potential buyers visit your home, either be absent or make yourselves as inconspicuous as possible.
• Have fresh flowers in the entryway. It makes for a friendly introduction into your home.
• If offers are made that don't match your hoped-for price, don't reject them out of hand. I will coach you through this process.
• Consider dropping the price if several months go by with few or no offers.
• Don't get discouraged. In buyer's markets, homes take longer to sell than during boom times. Your home will eventually sell.

Help Your Agent
You have the best chance of selling your home if you allow me to work closely with you. I will coordinate all showings of your home.

If prospective buyers want to discuss your property or negotiate price, I will discuss price and terms with them. My expertise will allow me to handle all these details without emotion.