Key things to consider when selling a home
Today’s Market
Is it a buyer’s market or a seller’s market? Understanding what is currently going on in the market near your home, what your home evaluation looks like today, and how your property compares others, will influence our pricing strategy and timing.
Property in ship-shape?
Is your home market-ready? Have you considered the necessary repairs to enhance your property so it looks its best for agents and buyers. These might be cosmetic changes or major repairs to the house. How does it compare to other homes that are within your area?
Do I need an real estate agent?
Yes, you can sell the home yourself. Obviously we are going to recommend that you work with an agent. There is an advantage to working with an agent who works in collaboration with you, and brings a skill set to your selling transaction that they have crafted and learned from over time. Knowing what’s going on in your area, who the agents are in the area, how your property compares to others, when the best time to look in your area — are all benefits of working with an agent that are sometimes overlooked.
As your own agent, make sure that you understand the legal requirements for selling your home, including disclosure obligations, contracts and potential taxes.
Prepping your house for sale
In addition to any repairs whether cosmetic or major, it is best if it is decluttered (yes, items can be moved to the garage or into storage) and depersonalized (so others can see themselves in your property). At MGRE we suggest having our professional designer in to ensure that the value of your home is maximized with repairs and that it looks its best with a minimum amount of clutter and personal effects. Using their services can be done a la carte or bundled, and the ultimate goal is to raise your property’s value.
Marketing
Using professional photos, we develop a marketing plan that suits the area. This will include online listings, open houses, yard signs, and social media promotion.
Negotiations
Offers? Counter-offers? Beyond price, we need to consider the closing date that best works for you, whatever restrictions or caveats the Buyer has suggested and more.
Once you’ve accepted the offer, you need to make sure that the property is ready for inspection by the Buyer prior to Closing. This will include their Lender’s appraisal as well as any other inspection by the Buyer (any repairs that were on condition with the offer, bringing designers through the house for measurements, etc).
Your lawyer will work with you to ensure that the ownership has been transferred with title.
Moving?
You will want to transfer or cancel your utilities for the day of closing. At that point on, the responsibility of the property is with the new owners.
Congratulations!