The Home Selling Process

Selling your home may seem simple enough; there are many approaches to take. Let’s look at some of the steps which have proven to be successful. Most full-service real estate agents begin by meeting with clients and evaluating their needs and goals. All homes are different inside and out, some are show room ready and some may need some decluttering and organizing. Depending upon the amount and type of furniture, staging may be a good option to consider. Curb appeal is equally important; the exterior and grounds should be well kept. When the inside and outside are ready, it’s time for a professional photographer/videographer. It’s critical to get great photos to best represent the house. Creative angles and high resolution will show best on the many online sites that begin most home buyer searches.

Drafting a professional write-up  describing the property and it’s top features is next. Showcasing all that makes the home special is key and may reference condition, location, proximity to commuter routes, public transportation, or area conveniences. Everything that a potential buyer may find most appealing and desirable. Once we receive the processed photos we will combine them with the advertising copy and create multiple online advertisements; formatted specifically for each online outlet. We will create a custom feature sheet with a plot plan, floor plan, photos, and listing detail for buyers to refer to during showings and to display at the open houses.

When these preparations are completed we are ready to put the listing live on the Multiple Listing Service and on over seven hundred websites- our goal is massive exposure to ensure that any ready, willing and able buyers will definitely know that the property is for sale. Proper price and proper exposure will drive an offer- the best offers will come when the property is exposed to the largest possible audience. Simultaneously we will have a yard sign installed and send Just Listed postcards / eblasts to our contacts, agent networks, and registered buyers / surrounding properties.

We will contact the seller as showing requests come in to accommodate everybody’s schedule and provide feedback immediately following the showing. We will have weekend open houses and a broker’s open house. A broker’s open house is useful as agents can preview the property for their clients: seeing it in person and developing personal knowledge is  best prior to recommending. Weekend open houses are my favorite part of the job! I want to meet potential buyers/current renters, and especially the neighbors.

No two homes are the same and variables always exist. Hiring an experienced agent to discuss the process and create a custom marketing and advertising plan for your home is the best way to approach the home selling process.