Listing Price - Very important factor.  The correct listing price initially will generate the most activity from other real estate agents and buyers. What a buyer is willing to pay determines the actual market value.  The condition of your home, what comparable homes in the neighborhood are selling for, the state of the market in your area, are other major considerations in determining the correct list price.  Often it is difficult for the seller to remain unbiased when setting the price for the home, your realtor's expertise is invaluable at this point in the determination.  Your agent has information to share regarding comparable home sales and the average time those homes are on the market before they sale. 
An appraisal will give you a truly objective opinion about the price of the home. The fee is typically a few hundred dollars.
Remember: You're always better off setting a fair market price initially vs setting it too high.  Studies show that homes priced higher than their market value take longer to sell.  If it sits on the market too long potential buyers will think something is wrong with the property.  If this happens, often the price has to drop below market value to compete with newer listings.
Part of our Distinquished Service at BHG Real Estate Metro Brokers  is to assist you in determining the most appropriate sales price, also a customized sales and marketing program for maximum exposure to potential buyers.    


Preparation  - "Declutter".  Clutter is a big no-no. Remove personal items from shelves, family photos  Clear bathroom and kitchen counters.  Make every area appear spacious. 
The condition of your home will affect how quickly it sells and the price a buyer is willing to offer.  First impressions are very important.
Your realtor can offer a fresh look at your home and suggest ways to stage it to make it appealing to buyers. 

Marketing - Get the word out.  You are ready to sell.  Consult with your realtor.  Another phase of our Distinquished Service is developing a customized marketing strategy specifically tailored to meet you individual needs, including: The Internet, Yard Signs, Open Houses, Media Advertising, Agent Referrals, Direct Mail marketing campaigns in addition to both MLS services.  We will use a combination of these tactics to bring the most qualified buyers to your home.

• The yard sign is in place in the front yard. Your home is now on the market. You have set your goals for your home sale.  Your needs have been defined.  Your home is "staged". Marketing is in place.

                                            
                                                        

                                 


The Offer  - When you receive an offer from a potential buyer your realtor can help determine if the individual is prequalified or preapproved to buy your home.  Your realtor will review the proposed contract with you taking care to understand what is required from both parties to execute the transaction.  Your realtor will also review the contract for necessary items such as legal descriptions, offer price, down payment, financing arrangements, list of fees and who is responsible for payment of fees, inspection rights, method of conveying the title, who will handle the closing, appliances and fixtures that will remain with the property, settlement date, any contingencies.
At this point, you have three options:  accept the contract as is, accept it with changes(this is called a counteroffer), or reject it.
Remember - a written offer signed by both parties becomes a binding legal agreement.  If you have any concerns or questions, discuss them with your realtor immediately, before you sign the contract.

Negotiate - My training in our Distinquished Service at BHG Real Estate Metro Brokers  offers skills as your  Advisor, Negotiator, Facilitator.  As your negotiator I will:  negotiate on your behalf and recommend specific strategies to achieve the best possible sales price and contract terms.  I will protect your best interest throughout the bargaining.
Some negotiable items are Price, Financing, Closing Cost, Repairs, Appliances and fixtures, Landscaping, Painting, Move-in Date.

Preparation For Closing - After you accept the offer to sell your house, you need to make a list of things you need to do and what the buyer is responsible for prior to closing.  The property may need appraisal, inspection, survey, or repairs.  Your realtor can initiate and assist in the effort and serve as your advocate when dealing with the buyer's agent and other service providers.  The written contract will dictate your responsibility, you may pay for some or all of the items.  If there are any problems, the terms of the contract will dictate the next step.  You or the buyer at this point may decide to walk away, enter new negotiations or proceed to closing.    If each procedure returns acceptable results the sale will continue.
It is a good idea to contact the entity that is closing the contract a few days prior to closing and make sure they have all necessary documents.  Also, if possession is at the time of closing make sure you have the property ready.

Closing - Congratulations!!! Your home is sold.
                 "Closing" refers to the meeting where ownership of the property is legally transferred to the buyer.
Your realtor will be present during the closing to assist you.  In some states an attorney is required and you may wish to have one present.
You should have a "to do" list for turning over the property to the new owners.  It can include:
Canceling electricity, gas, lawn care, cable, and other routine services. Gather manuals and warranties for services and appliances you will convey.  If the new owner wants to retain any of the services, change the name on the account.


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