Homeselling 101

Selling your home is just like buying, only backwards and in heels, right? Not exactly! Here are the steps to the process. 

1. Choose your Realtor. Ideally, that would be me. Your Realtor should come prepared with comparable sales for your home - and should check them regularly until you're actually on market. Don't go for the person who promises you the highest price, unless the numbers you are shown justify that price. They should also have a marketing plan; some still rely on paper flyers and brochures, some are more web based. The reality is both work. 

2. Prepare for Sale. I recommend sellers - no matter how minimalist! - remove about 30-50% of themselves from their home. You want the buyer to be able to picture themselves, and that's hard when you're still everywhere. Packing is good anyway. Don't worry about filling the garage with boxes if you're not getting a pod; just make sure there's room for an inspection. Do you need to do a little bit of work on the house? Maybe. This is where a great conversation with your Realtor can tell you what do work on. Kitchens and baths are your moneymakers. 

3. Photos. I cover professional photos and a floor plan, something every buyer wants. Look through some of the comparable sales your Realtor brings over and check out those photos - the best selling ones take great pictures! Strive for that look. *note for certain jurisdictions around Portland metro - a Home Energy Score may be required; I'll make the appointment but the seller covers the cost. 

4. GO LIVE! I usually recommend that for the first weekend of being active, you go out of town so that we can have the house as available for showings as possible.