Selling a house can seem complicated, especially if you have no prior experience in real estate. Enjoy a smooth and successful process with the right preparation and guidance. Here are eight steps to follow when putting your home on the market, from preparing the property to negotiating an offer. If you’re a first-time seller or trying to navigate the process again, these tips will help you sell your house.
Steps to Sell Your House
Find the Right Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent will help you find the right buyer, negotiate the best deal, and guide you through the process of selling your house. Look for someone with experience working with sellers and who knows your local market. Ask for recommendations and interview several agents before making a decision.
Make Repairs and Improvements
Before putting your house on the market, make repairs. Simple improvements make a big difference in how attractive your home is to potential buyers. Patch holes in the walls, repair leaky faucets, and replace missing outlet covers. Paint, update the landscaping, and declutter as necessary.
Schedule a Pre-Listing Inspection Before You Sell Your House
Order a professional home inspection before listing your house for sale. The inspection will identify major issues, allowing you to address them before prospective buyers tour the property.
Prepare the House for Showings
Once repairs are finished, prepare your home for showings. Make sure the living spaces are clean, clutter-free, and staged to make the house look attractive. Buyers want to visualize themselves living in the home, so remove personal items, such as family photos or souvenirs.
Price the Property Right
Choosing a listing price is one of the most important steps when selling a house. Too high, and you risk scaring off potential buyers. Too low, and you could lose money in the sale. Research the current market and work with your real estate agent to determine the right price. Your agent can provide valuable insights into local trends and market conditions to help you set an appropriate price.
Marketing is Essential to Sell Your House
When you’re ready to sell, market your house. Your agent will likely create marketing materials such as flyers, brochures, and virtual tours. The agent will have access to online platforms and real-estate listing networks to advertise your property. Social media can also be an effective way to reach potential buyers.
Receive and Negotiate Offers
As prospective buyers make offers on your home, your agent will present them for your review. Once you receive an offer you’re interested in, it’s time to negotiate the price. The agent will guide you through the negotiation process, helping you get the best price for your house.
Finalize and Sell Your House
After accepting an offer, there are a few steps until you close the sale. Your agent will help you navigate the buyer’s inspection, appraisal, and contingencies that may arise. Once everything is in order, you’ll sign the final paperwork and hand the keys to your buyer.
Selling your house can be a long process, but following these steps, you can succeed. From preparing your property for sale to negotiating an offer, you’ll be well-equipped to sell your home.
Oasis Home Inspections offers inspection services in Brevard County, Florida. If you’re buying or selling a property, contact us to schedule an appointment.