Rule # 1 Don’t let the selling process scare you.
Rule # 2 Get representation – You need someone on your side
Rule # 3 Get educated. Ask lots of questions
Follow these steps with the help of your real estate agent:
Before the sale – Marketing
- Meet your agent at your home to preview your property
- Map out your game plan
- Discuss price and terms
- Discuss any required repairs
- Discuss fees and expenses (Estimated cost sheet)
- Discuss marketing strategies
- Discuss marketing materials and programs
- Go through all required documentation
- Discuss communication and the follow up systems you will be using
- Discuss how to handle clients that come through your property
- Once you are satisfied with all the details, list the property
Opening escrow – Closing the sale
- Negotiate the transaction
- Coordinate the home inspection
- Negotiate repairs
- Take care of disclosure issues (SPDS, termite, lead based paint, pool rules, etc.)
- Follow up on buyer qualification
- Follow up on any lender issues (appraisal, repairs or other conditions required)
- Make sure all repairs are completed
- Coordinate the closing process and get the transaction closed
The importance of communication is critical. This is a group effort. You and your agent must work together to coordinate all the details. Remember, we are in this together.