Selling your home is a complex, multi-step process that calls for the expertise of a REALTOR®. There are many things you will need to consider, and to help you through it, here is a general overview of what to expect.
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 speak to your lender or mortgage broker before you can proceed.
Meet With a REALTOR®
It’s important to partner with a REALTOR® you feel completely comfortable with. Don’t fall for the trap of partnering with the first REALTOR® who suggests the highest asking price. Shop around. A good REALTOR® has an in-depth knowledge of the market and can help you price your home to sell.
Start your search for a reputable REALTOR®, by checking if family and friends have a preferred REALTOR® or search online for someone you would like to work with, someone who returns your calls and can answer your questions.
Listing Your Home
Pricing your home at the right price for the current market conditions is critical to attract potential buyers and be able to obtain an acceptable offer. Your REALTOR® will be able to explain to you, the multitude of factors influencing the marketability of your home. This includes competitive pricing, market conditions and ways to improve the condition of your home to have it ready for the market.
Marketing And Promotion
The next step will be to sign a Listing Agreement, which gives your REALTOR® permission to post your property on MLS (Multiple Listing Service). 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. Your REALTOR® can also help you prepare your home for viewings.
Closing
After your REALTOR® has successfully marketed your home and you have accepted an offer, the buyer will need to arrange for any conditions they have in the offer, such as home inspection, financing, etc. to be completed and provide you with a waiver of conditions. You will then meet with your lawyer to do the final paperwork.
I hope this Seller’s guide has given you an idea of what can be expected when selling a home. I am available to answer “all” questions and discuss anything else that comes to mind. My goal is always to keep you well informed and to make sure that you understand every step along this journey.