If you are selling a home for the first time (or it’s been a while), it can all seem overwhelming. Let’s break down the steps in the process to make it a bit less daunting:
Find a real estate agent
A real estate agent can be an invaluable resource for home sellers, even in the very early stages. An experienced real estate agent with great local market and marketing expertise can help you navigate the process and get the best price for your home. Bring a REALTOR® on early in the process to help with the next step.
Get your home ready for sale
Before you list your home, it’s essential to ensure it’s ready for sale. It means taking the time to do some repairs, de-cluttering, and staging the house. This will help make the home more appealing to potential buyers and help you to get the most for your home. Talk to your REALTOR® about prioritizing what to focus your time and energy on. They may provide a stager to come to your home as they look at the home with a buyer’s eye.
Set the right price
One of the most important things you can do when selling your home is to set the right price. You want to set a fair and realistic price without undervaluing or overpricing or your home. The highest number of eyes on your listing happen in the first week or two and you don’t want to miss that period by pricing your home too high. Your REALTOR® will be able to gather the current market statistics and recent neighbourhood / comparable sales to help you come to an informed decision.
Market your home
This is your real estate agent’s job! Over 90% of buyers start their search online, so make sure the real estate agent you work with uses professional photography and videography. To attract potential buyers, your home has to be seen by as many potential buyers as possible. Your real estate agent should market online *and* in print and get people interested and hopefully through the door to fall in love with your home.
Prepare for showings
Most REALTORs® use an app to schedule showings so that you can sort out a schedule that is convenient for you and go from there. Remember that you want to make the home available and as easy possible for agents to show, especially in the first couple of weeks. When potential buyers come to view your home, you want to ensure that it is as clean and inviting as possible. Take the time to tidy the house to look its best. Your agent may have short checklist so that you leave your home in the best light.
Negotiate the sale
Once an offer is received, it’s time to negotiate the deal. Your real estate agent can help you get the best price for your home and explain any conditions that may be in offers, and ensure the sale goes as smoothly as possible.
Selling a home can be daunting, but we hope this breakdown demystifies the process a bit for you.
Are you a first-time home seller? Contact us today to find out how we can help you through the process!
