Sellers, What to Expect
What your Realtor SHOULD do for you…
Know Your Property
You and your realtor should discuss prior to your listing current property taxes, zoning, lot size, square footage, etc. Also, if you have an existing mortgage you should be discussing with your Lender the terms of your mortgage. This included if there are payout penalties, the ability to port your mortgage and if moving up, the possibility of additional financing.
Research the current market in your area.
How much are properties similar to yours selling for? What are the terms of the sales? What property disclosure rules do you need to take into consideration?
I can provide you current information on the market your home is in. Keeping you updated on new listings, solds, etc. provides you the information so that you are comfortable that your home is being marketed optimally.
Set the price.
Once you know the specifics about your home and have checked out what similar properties in your area are selling for, set a realistic price. Price is an important factor when it comes to listing your home.
| Price to low – you leave money on the table | Price to high – you deter the public and realtors from viewing your home |
| Price just right – you have the potential to sell your home quickly, maximize the people who view your property, invite multiple offers, etc |
View your property as a Buyer
Look at it from the perspective of both the prospective buyer and the inspector. Take notes on all items that need to be repaired or replaced. Things to consider include:
Outside:
- From the street, is the house appealing?
- Does it need a new coat of paint because it’s peeling or faded? Maybe it’s a color that will deter many people?
- Are lawn and landscaping attractive and well-kept?
- Are the windows and doors attractive and in good condition?
- Are the roof, gutters, and downspouts in good condition?
- Are all toys put away such as bikes, scooters, etc.?
Inside:
- Are the interior paints and finishes in good condition or do they need to be freshened up? Will your colors appeal to most people? For a minimal investment, you could possibly make or break a sale by having your home look well-kept and inviting.
- Are the appliances in clean and in good working order?
- Are the plumbing and electrical systems in good condition? Are they fully functional?
- Are the carpets or other floor coverings clean and in good condition? Like the paint, are they attractive and well-kept? Floor coverings are worth paying for so that your home makes a good impression.
- Are the sealants (sink, shower, tub, windows) in good condition?
- Are all light fixtures working properly, and is there good lighting in each room?
- Have you removed the clutter? Buyers like to enter a home and see there is enough room for everything. Pack away unnecessary items, removed excess furniture. I can assist you in downsizing your items to maximize your space.
- Are your Closets clean and uncluttered? If you have a full closet, remove the seasons you are not using. You want to present that there isn’t a shortage of storage anywhere in the home.
I always suggest to my Sellers to have a Pre-Inspection down prior to listing a property. This puts the Seller into a stronger negotiating position, leads to smoother transactions (fewer surprises) and differentiates the Seller and their home from the rest of the listings. 90% of all Buyers will have a home inspected prior to closing and limiting the “surprises” prior to their inspection will always benefit the Seller.
