Steps to Selling a Home

If you are selling your home, there are a few things to keep in mind before putting your property on the market. These considerations will help you have a more time-efficient and cost-effective experience.

  1. Find a good REALTOR®. Selling a home is no small transaction to most and requires extensive amounts of time, money and knowledge. The services of a Seller's Agent include professional and personal expertise in sales and real estate marketing. They will not only provide you with essential information regarding the current market, but they will also represent you throughout the transaction.
  2. Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Ever wondered how much your home is worth? If you are trying to sell your home and you are unsure about the market value of your home, then get a detailed Comparable Market Analysis. This will help you price your home competitively on the current real estate market and help you get top dollar for your home. Contact your local real estate agent to find out how you can qualify for a free CMA today.
  3. Price Your Home Right. Your asking price for your home will greatly determine how long your home will remain on the market. If your price is too high, you might want to reconsider the length of time you're willing to wait. Because pricing is an important factor in the home-selling process, keeping these five things in mind will help you establish a fair asking price:

    • Obtain a Comparative Market Analysis.
    • Consider your competition.
    • Be informed about recent sales.
    • Stay motivated.
    • Note changes in the market.
  4. Gain Exposure. The old saying "Time is Money" is a valuable insight to the home-selling process. If you are a homeowner interested in selling your property, it is wise to put it on the market as soon as possible. More exposure will give you more time and more options. Use your REALTOR's networking skills and let them work for you. You can establish an effective marketing plan by following these simple steps.

    • Determine the best media outlet for maximum exposure.
    • Place your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
    • Advertise via word of mouth.
  5. Give your home a makeover. Curb appeal is one of the most important factors to selling your home. The exterior of a home always makes a statement and says a lot to potential homebuyers. What statement do you want your home to make? With a few simple adjustments to the general look of your home, you will make a desired impression on homebuyers without the expense of costly renovations. Because most buyers will automatically rule out a home that is unkempt, it is in your best interest to meet their needs in every way possible. Here are a few ways to improve your home without serious expense:

    • Make note of any household repairs and prioritize them according to importance.
    • Keep landscaping neat, and remember to make a statement.
    • Touch up exterior and interior paint that has chipped or faded.
    • Be mindful of lighting. Homes can appear brighter by removing branches or plants that hinder penetrating light.
    • Remove age-old dust and debris from windows, shelves and other miscellaneous corners.
    • Get organized. Renovate closets and cabinets. Space is an attractive feature to homebuyers.
    • Make minor repairs on leaks and squeaks.
    • Keep rooms clean.
  6. Prepare to close. The time has finally come to close on your property. Your REALTOR® will do a final walk through with the homebuyers to make sure everything is in satisfactory condition. Before the close, the Realtor will be present to answer any last-minute questions and go over lingering details. Remember, your Realtor is here to help you. With only a few simple steps and a professional by your side, your home-selling experience can be successful and enjoyable!

Once you've closed on the home, the deed is yours and that officially makes you a new homeowner. Keep in mind your home is an investment. Treat it well and keep it in good shape and it will likely increase in value.

Agent Photo

Angela Whipple
Advantage Realty and
Marketing Group LLC
4419 Myers Park Drive
Durham, NC 27705

Office:919.306.1868
Fax:919.287.2729
www.angelawhipple.com