The short version
Selling goes from a decision, to preparation, to listing, to an accepted offer, to closing. Bring in an agent at the beginning, before you spend money on repairs or decide on timing, because the agent can tell you what is worth doing and in what order.
The key milestones
| Step | What happens | Who is involved |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Decide and plan | Set goals, timing, a rough net figure and a plan for your next home | You, agent, CPA, lender |
| 2. Walk-through | Agent walks the home and lists what buyers will notice | You, agent |
| 3. Repairs and inspections | Fix condition problems; consider a pre-listing inspection and specialty inspections | You, contractors, inspectors |
| 4. Documents and disclosures | Gather records, HOA documents and complete required disclosures | You, agent |
| 5. Pricing | Review comparable sales and set a list price | You, agent |
| 6. Presentation and marketing | Clean, stage, photograph, write the listing | You, agent, photographer |
| 7. Listing and showings | Home goes on the market; buyers tour | You, agent |
| 8. Offers and negotiation | Review offers, negotiate price and terms, accept one | You, agent |
| 9. Under contract | Buyer's inspection, appraisal and financing; negotiate repairs or credits | Buyer, you, agents, lender |
| 10. Closing | Final walk-through, signing, funding, handing over keys | You, title and escrow, agents |
When to get an agent involved
At step 1 or 2. An agent can help you decide whether to sell now, what to fix and what to leave, what your home may sell for, and how to time your next move. Getting advice after you have already started major projects is the most common way sellers spend money that does not pay back.
While it is better to have more time to plan and prepare, we have been able to prepare and get a home on the market in less than 14 days.
Common mistakes
- Starting large projects before getting advice.
- Listing before the home is ready, then trying to fix problems while it is on the market.
- Setting a price based on what you need rather than what comparable homes sold for.
- Waiting until the inspection to learn about problems you could have found yourself.
Thinking about selling in the Seattle Area?
Kelly Azzarello Real Estate | Compass
Email: kelly@kellyazzarello.com
Phone: (425) 830-6457
Web: www.kellyazzarello.com
Instagram: instagram.com/kellyazzarello
YouTube: youtube.com/kellyazzarellorealestate
This post is general information about real estate topics. It is not legal, tax or financial advice, and it does not replace a professional inspection. Rules and practices differ by situation and change over time. Check current requirements and talk with a licensed professional, such as an inspector, contractor, attorney or CPA, about your own property.
