A Step-by-Step First Time Seller's Guide

Putting your home on the market can be a stressful process, especially when you don’t know what to expect. Fortunately, with the help of an experienced agent and this easy-to-follow guide, you can smoothly complete the process. Following these steps will help you prepare so you can get organized and sell your home for the best price possible.​​​​​​​

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Step 1: several meetings with me

  • Initial walk-through to see the home (approximately 15-20 minutes).
  • The second meeting is to discuss a specific plan and next steps.
  • Fill out disclosures and home history as accurately as possible.
  • Listing Agreement and paperwork.
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Step 2: get the property ready for the market

  • Staging suggestions were provided to help sell the home.
  • Deep clean, de-clutter, and get the home ready for photos.
  • Provide an extra key for the lock box to allow access for showings.
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Step 3: Photographer appointment

  • I will hire a photographer.
  • We will communicate with you to set up a time to take the photos.
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Step 4: Listing day

  • A RE/MAX sign will be installed in the front yard.
  • The listing goes live in the Multiple Listing Search portal (MLS), this is an online, live, up-to-date portal that is only accessible to Real Estate Agents. Agents will provide their clients with access to the portal and customize it so they receive updates on applicable properties.
  • Make sure the home is clean and ready.
  • Showings will be arranged.
  • I will present any feedback to you on a weekly basis.
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Step 5: Offers

  • I will present and review all offers with you.
  • Accepting an offer is very situational based on price, terms, and conditions.
  • We will work together to decide the strengths and weaknesses of each offer, and I will provide you with my recommendations.
  • Ultimately it is your choice.
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Step 6: Contract

  • Once we come to terms on an offer, we sign and go “under contract”.
  • Inspections
    • Buyers, buyer’s agents, and inspectors access the property for inspections at their expense. Inspections can take up to 4 hours. 
    • Buyers may have repair requests.
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Step 7: Financing

  • A cash buyer may want to do an appraisal of the property (to verify home value).
  • A buyer financing the property will be required to have a third-party appraisal done on behalf of the lender. 
  • The buyer continues to work with the lender to get final approval to purchase the property.
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Step 8: Closing

  • Remove all belongings from the property prior to closing day.
  • Buyers and their agents do a walk-through inspection prior to closing.
  • Once all the expectations have been met, we make the monetary transaction, sign all papers, and the house becomes the property of the buyer.

HOME SALE TIMELINE

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What's your home really worth?

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My TOP Tips for Sellers

Regardless of the price, these tips will help make the home more attractive to potential buyers.

Welcome to the Hotel

  • When you are preparing the home, think about how it feels to walk into a hotel. The clean lines and tidy appearance are what will help buyers fall in love with the home

Initial Impressions & Curb Appeal

  • Tidy up landscaping by removing dead branches, leaves, and debris
  • Keep the lawn freshly cut, watered, and looking healthy
  • Touch up any peeling paint on the siding or trim
  • Shovel snow in the winter so potential buyers have clear access
  • De-clutter the porch and front yard
  • Go for a clean and tidy look
  • Put out a bright new “WELCOME” mat that compliments the home’s style

Don’t Let Buyers Get Distracted by STUFF

  • Clear all surfaces
  • Remove excess furniture
  • Remove family pictures, personal items, toys, etc. Help the buyer visualize themselves there
  • Clean out and streamline the contents of all closets
  • Make the beds
  • Put the toys away
  • Get packing
  • Sell, donate, or dispose of extra items you will not be taking

Think Deep Clean

  • Wash all walls
  • Clean out and deep clean all appliances
  • Wash all windows
  • Sweep/vacuum all rooms & all surfaces
  • Hire a professional cleaner if you can’t clean

Noses Lead the Way

  • Smelly homes turn off buyers
  • The home should smell pleasant
  • No overbearing scents
  • Limit cooking odors

Weekend Warrior: Interior Touch Ups

  • Swap out any outlet covers that are cracked, missing, or have been painted over with new ones
  • Replace any broken light bulb covers or update light fixtures
  • Go neutral: fresh paint on dark walls & remove wallpaper
  • Put a fresh seal of caulking around bathroom sinks and tubs

Showings

  • Showings can last anywhere between 5 minutes to an hour
  • Everyone should leave the house 10-15 minutes before the showing time and allow up to an hour
  • Make sure the house is sparkly clean
  • Wipe down all surfaces
  • Clean out sinks and put away any dishes
  • Turn on all the lights & open all blinds/curtains
  • Set the temperature at a comfortable setting
  • Secure valuables, firearms, medications etc

Bright & Airy Spaces

  • Make sure all blinds and curtains are open so potential buyers can see how much natural light comes in!
  • Turn on every light even if you get a lot of natural light. It might seem excessive but it will help the home shine!

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Work With DJ

DJ will always have your best interest at heart and with your permission, she will be completely honest when offering her professional expertise. DJ looks forward to the opportunity to serve you!