The home selling process differs from state to state, but there are some important steps that most home sellers should take before listing a house with an agent or selling it for sale by owner.
Making a repair - Perform any needed repairs on the interior and exterior of your home and fix, paint or otherwise repair anything that may hinder a sale.
Real estate agent or from owner - Decide if you want to use a real estate agent or not. A selling agent generally receives 2.5 to 3 percent of the sale price. In return, he or she should work to sell your home and list it in the Multiple Listings Services (MLS) where it can be seen by other agents. You may be able to save several thousand by handling the marketing of your home on your own. You could research how fast homes are selling in your area. That will give you an idea of how long you may have to wait to sell your home.
Get recommendations - From satisfied friends and interview several agents who specialize in your area. Get a feel for their approach and how proactive they'll be in marketing your home. Have them outline their strategy for making your home as attractive as possible. Ask how long your contract with an agent runs. Most are for 90 days, but can often be negotiated. If the house sits for too long unsold, find yourself a new agent.
Review current listings – Check in your area and set a strategic asking price. Your agent should get comparative prices on nearby homes and do a market analysis taking into account the size, location, condition and other elements to price it accurately. Ask to see the analysis so you understand how the agent established the asking price.
Home listed - Confirm that the home will be listed in the MLS, that it will have an online presence, and that a professional-looking fact sheet will be prepared to help market the house.
Inform your neighbors and friends – Tell them that your home is going on the market. Hold a pre-open house, give a tour and ask for their help in finding a suitable buyer. Many homes are sold by word-of-mouth through friends and neighbors, so make use of your contacts.
Keep your house clean - Prospective buyers often appear with as little as a half hour's notice. Your agent will put a lockbox on your door to gain entrance without your presence.