Ten Steps to Selling Your Home

Whether you sell your home completely on your own, rely on the full participation of a professional real estate company, or something in between, the basic steps in the real estate selling process are the same.

1. Determine your readiness to sell your home.
   Are your plans for moving settled? Is your home "market ready" and presentable, with no obvious detractors, such as a leaky roof or broken windows?
2. Determine the service level you need and select a service provider, if appropriate.
   Many people decide to sell their homes entirely on their own. Some, however, may want the competitive edge that working with a professional real estate company can provide.
3. Set an asking price for your home.
   Setting the right price for your home is crucial in conducting a successful sale. Research recent sales of houses in your neighborhood to determine the right price to ask.
4. Put your home "on the market" by installing a for sale sign in the front yard.
   A professionally designed sign with clear lettering and prominent placement in your front yard greatly helps potential buyers find you.
5. List your home with appropriate services, including Internet websites, and/or advertise it in the newspaper.
   Good advertising is key to selling your house. Exposure to a wide number of potential buyers is a must. Website listings and ads should include the most important features of your home, the asking price, and contact information.
6. Hold one or more open houses, if appropriate.
   Your open house is an opportunity to market your home, so make sure the home is as attractive as possible both inside and outside.
7. Provide appropriate written information and required disclosures to potential buyers.
   A well-written home information flyer which includes detailed information on your home's construction, floorplan, and selling points is an essential tool for home sellers and buyers alike. Your area will also have legal requirements regarding disclosure of certain aspects of your home to potential buyers.
8. Once an offer is received, review it carefully. Make a counteroffer to the prospective buyer, if appropriate, and finalize the sales contract.
   Make sure you know all the details of the offer, not just the "bottom line," and check to see if the buyer has been pre-qualified to receive a mortgage for your home. Professional advice in understanding the offer is highly recommended.
9. Arrange title and closing services.
   It is the seller's responsibility to arrange title and closing services. A title company can provide a list of all documents that need to be finalized prior to closing. (Home Quarters offers all necessary title and closing services.) Make sure you are prepared with an understanding of all documents that will need to be reviewed and signed at closing.
10. Closing: Review and sign all paperwork and collect payment for the home!