It’s important to define what success looks like and to understand the market and your priorities before you list your home for sale. You and your agent should walk through the below questions to achieve the best outcome:

• What is my motivation to sell?
• What is my timeline to move?
• What is most important to me? Timing, price, etc?
• What are the current market dynamics of supply & demand?
• What is currently listed and has sold around my neighborhood?
• What are the key benefits of my home?
• What makes it stand out from other homes for sale?

Once you’ve chosen an agent, you will need to get your home ready to put on the market. This step is one of the most important factors in whether your home will sell and how much it will sell for. You will likely discuss and decide:

• Final documentation and contractual agreements
• Define a launch timeline
• If any home improvements are needed
• If staging is necessary
• Scheduling a photographer and videographer
• Open houses and showing times
• Global and local marketing strategy
• Print and digital advertising opportunities

Once your home has been prepped and is show-ready, it’s time to list it for sale. Your agent will execute the marketing plan and launch advertising campaigns. During the active stage, you can expect your agent to:

• Attract qualified potential buyers by creating a perception of value
• Monitor interest and keep you updated on buyer feedback
• Weekly reports, updates, and communication
• Qualify and present each offer made
• Strategize with you and negotiate offers to optimize price and terms
• Have a process for back-up offers

Once you’ve accepted an offer, a lot of paperwork and transitioning begins:

• Complete disclosures and transfer legal ownership of your home
• Sign closing documents and pay closing costs
• Receive funds
• Review process and provide any feedback or testimonials
• Celebrate!