- Once you decide to sell your home, hire a good agent. A professional Realtor with whom you are comfortable with and have established a rapport; someone who knows the neighborhood.
- Determine the worth of your home. Your agent will help assess the price and will advise you of its fair market value, taking into consideration current market conditions and recent sales in the neighborhood. You may also want to consider having your home appraised.
- Enhance the appearance of your property (exterior and interior) and make any improvements necessary to boost the appearance of your home. De-clutter, create open spaces and clean, as first impressions are important and often “simpler” is better. Your realtor will discuss staging your home, if necessary.
- Your agent will need information from you to fully represent your home, including:
- Survey and plot plan(s)
- Status of septic system
- Any deed restrictions or covenants on the property
- Age of all major appliances, including the roof
- Approximate cost of monthly utility bills (electric, gas, oil)
- Information on assessments
- Home items that will be excluded from the sale
- Your agent will discuss with you signage, open houses, MLS tours, advertising, keys (versus lock box) and marketing strategies.
- Think about your next move, know your financial situation and make a plan.
- Be prepared to show your home on short notice whenever possible.
- A final walk through of your home will be conducted prior to the closing. Your agent will accompany the Buyer and his/her agent and will also be present at the closing.
