1. Decide When to Sell

• Timing matters when selling a home. Look at your personal situation—such as job changes, family needs, or financial goals—and compare it with the real estate market in your area. In many places, spring and summer are popular times to sell because homes tend to show better and more buyers are looking. Your real estate agent can help you decide if it's a good time based on local trends.

 

2. Find a Real Estate Agent

• A professional real estate agent will guide you through the process, help you avoid costly mistakes, and work to get you the best price. They’ll handle pricing, marketing, showings, negotiations, and paperwork. Look for someone with good local experience and great communication—you want someone who will answer your questions and explain everything clearly.

 

3. Set the Right Price

• Pricing your home correctly is key to selling quickly and for the most money. Your agent will create a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), which compares your home to recently sold properties nearby. Pricing too high can scare off buyers, while pricing too low may leave money on the table. A well-priced home usually attracts more interest and better offers.

 

4. Get Your Home Ready

• Before listing, take time to prepare your home for buyers. Clean every room, declutter, and consider small updates like painting or fixing leaky faucets. First impressions matter, so boost curb appeal by mowing the lawn and cleaning up the front entry. The goal is to make your home look spacious, clean, and move-in ready.

 

5. List Your Home

• Once your home is ready, your agent will put it on the market using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and other platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and social media. They’ll also arrange for professional photos and possibly a virtual tour. A strong online presence helps attract more buyers.

 

6. Show your Home to Buyers

• Buyers will want to see your home in person, either during scheduled showings or open houses. It’s best to leave during these visits so buyers can look around freely. Keep your home clean, well-lit, and smelling fresh. The more comfortable buyers feel, the more likely they are to make an offer.

 

7. Review and Negotiate Offers

• When offers come in, your agent will help you review each one carefully. You’ll look at more than just the price—factors like financing, contingencies (such as inspections or buyer needing to sell their current home), and closing timelines all matter. You can accept, reject, or negotiate with the buyer to get the best terms for you.

 

8. Accept an Offer and Open Escrow

• Once you and the buyer agree on terms, both sides sign a purchase agreement, and the deal enters escrow (a secure process where a third party manages the transaction). During escrow, the buyer will work on finalizing their financing, and both parties will start preparing for closing.

 

9. Complete Inspections and Paperwork

• ​The buyer may hire inspectors to examine the home’s condition. Depending on the results, they might ask for repairs or credits. You’ll also work with your agent and escrow officer to fill out legal documents, disclosures, and any forms required by your state or local area.

 

10. Close the Sale

• Closing is the final step, when ownership officially transfers to the buyer. You’ll sign the final paperwork, hand over the keys, and the escrow company will release the funds to you (usually by check or wire transfer). Once everything is complete, you’ve officially sold your home—congratulations!

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