Guide on how to sell a home

You already heard that real estate market is on fire, and there is not enough houses out there to fulfill the demand and that drives prices up.  So you started to consider: " Should I sell?" But you don't know where to start and what to expect. Here is your step by step guide of the selling process:

1. Decide for yourself if you absolutely need to move within next 3-6 months.  Market is really fast moving right now, and after you sell, you will need to buy and that is whole another game in this crazy market.

2. Find a knowledgeable real estate agent who will help you and guide you through the selling process.

3. Pricing your home right is the next step and you real estate agent will use his/her knowledge, data from CMA (comparative market analysis) to get you the maximum price.  Many factors are at play here: what was recently sold in your area, supply and demand, your own needs as a seller (how fast you want to sell and move).

4. Next you will get your house ready to be marketed on MLS (multiple listing service). Here we talk about cleaning, staging house for a professional photos and scheduling showings. 

5. Offer negotiation (sometimes multiple offers) is the next step. Here you can accept, deny, or counter offer the buyer if you want different terms. Again, your real estate agent will present to you all the offers, explain terms, and help you to pick the best one. 

6. Next step is you getting ready for closing. During this period of time buyer will do all the necessary inspections such as home inspection, WDO ( wood destroying organism) inspection, radon gas testing, etc. Buyer might want to request some repairs to be done prior to closing.  Lender will order appraisal, survey for the buyer. Sometimes inspection period could be nerve wrecking, because there might be issued that you as a seller did't know about. That's why it is wise to do your own home inspection before putting home for sale to dismiss surprises. 

7. Attending closing is a final step. After a period of negotiations, inspections you will be ready to close and move to the next chapter of your life that includes buying a new home. 

Questions?  I'm here for you!

Tatyana Grigoryan

Century 21 First Story