Listing agents represent you and have a fiduciary obligation to protect your best interests. Before you make a final decision, interview at least three agents. Hire based on your experience. Real Big Group merge technology with personal touches to give our customers the most efficient services.
Ask about the terms of your listing agreement. This includes the time frame for which the home will be on the market and the commission that you will pay to the agent. Are you going to pay the commissions of the buyer’s agent?
Find out how much your home is worth
The biggest mistake sellers make is overpricing their homes. Your price should be in line with the prices of homes that have been sold in a comparative analysis report. Price the home according to whether it is in a hot, cold or neutral market.
Get your home ready for sale
You can prepare your home for sale by decluttering and improving its curb appeal. Hire a professional stager for your home to show. Ask your agent for ideas. Your furniture can often be reused.
Marketing Your Home
Your agent or you should determine the selling points of the home and select the most effective advertising words to communicate them. You can either approve the marketing campaign of your agent or decide how to market your house. If possible, hire a virtual-tour company to take high quality photos and place a virtual visit online.
Show your Home
Agents will be more likely to show your house if they can use a keypad or lockbox to do so, rather than forcing them to schedule appointments. You don’t have to make appointments if you want them to. Buyers may want to view the home during the week (after work), or on weekends. Try to be as flexible as possible.
Open houses are a good idea, but you should be careful about how many people attend. Ask for feedback from buyers if you are hosting one. This will allow you to adjust your price, condition or marketing campaign accordingly.
Get Purchase Offers and Negotiate
If your home is priced correctly, be prepared to accept multiple offers. Accept any offer, even if it seems low, and don’t hesitate to accept. You can counter-offer to negotiate.
If market conditions permit, consider making a counteroffer that is contingent on your purchase of a home. If your price is fair and backed by comparable sales, don’t hesitate to make a full-price counteroffer.
Assist the Home Inspector
Get ready to meet the home inspector. So you know what the inspector is looking for, ask your agent to give you a checklist. Prepare the basement and attic for inspection. Clear a path for inspectors to access the attic and basement.
Ask the buyer to release contingencies
Ask the buyer to “release” any contingencies from their contract. This means that they will have to confirm that they are resolved. If you do not request it, the buyer is not required to give a contingency release. You might be able to cancel the contract in certain states if the buyer refuses to release you.
Sign the Title and Escrow documents
Depending on your location, you may sign escrow documents soon after opening escrow. Or you may sign them closer to closing. In some states, buyers and sellers are required to be present at the table. Ask your agent for details.