You’re ready to sell your home so you can embark on some new, exciting chapter of life. Maybe you’ve recently changed jobs, hope to be closer to your grandkids, or like many recent sellers, want a roomier abode accommodative of a home office and outdoor living space. The only rational choice is to sell the house, but that doesn’t make the process of selling a house any easier or less emotional.
On top of parting with the countless memories you’ve built here, you’ll need to recognize the home’s flaws for what they are. Perhaps the roof is dinged up from a past storm, or your carpets carry lingering smells. Given that people stay in their homes an average of 10 years, clutter tends to stack up in forgotten closets and drawers. Where to begin?
No matter where you live or what kind of shape your home is in, this guide detailing how to sell a house is designed to reduce overwhelm and help you navigate through the sale in small, manageable tasks. The main steps to selling a home we’ll cover in this guide include:
Step 1: Get your affairs (and house) in order
- Check your home value
- Calculate your equity
- Estimate your net proceeds
- Start the process of packing and decluttering
Step 2: Find a top local real estate agent
- Use an agent-matching platform for best results
- Interview multiple candidates
- Look for relevant experience
- Sign the listing agreement
- In a hurry? Request a cash offer
- Can I sell my house myself?
Step 3: Set a price for the home
- Order a home inspection
- Review your agent’s comparative market analysis (CMA)
- Account for the ‘art’ and science of home value
- Consider online price filters
Step 4: Prepare your home for the market
- Make advisable repairs, but avoid unnecessary upgrades
- Declutter room by room
- Do a deep clean now (and lighter one later)
- Improve your curb appeal
- Stage your home to create a warm, inviting space
- Bring in natural light
- Take high-quality real estate photos for the listing
Step 5: Market and show the home to attract an offer
- Promote the home online and offline
- Be flexible and prepared for showings
- Use a checklist to clean up for last-minute tours
- Review your offer(s) and pick the best one
Step 6: Complete steps to closing
- Pass the home inspection
- Prepare for the home appraisal
- Clear title
- Take care of necessary repairs
- Make arrangements to be out by closing
- Plan for the final walkthrough
Step 7: Sign the final paperwork and move out
- Review the settlement statement
- Receive your home sale proceeds
- Determine if you’ll owe taxes on the sale
- Transfer utilities
- Change your address and forward your mail
- Give your buyers a great move-in experience
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