1. Research

Research home prices in your area to get a general idea about what your home is worth.  Zillow.com is a popular site that shows you recent sales near your home.  Bear in mind that prices may vary drastically from one area to another, even within a neighborhood or subdivision, and you may not be able to see differences like upgrades, size, and floorplans from raw data.  This is where an agent can help.  Ask your friends and family for a referral or find an agent who specializes in your area. This is also the best time to research your agent.  Check with the Department of Real Estate and the local REALTOR® association to see if any complaints have been filed against him or her (click here to check my record with ADRE).  Then set an appointment to discuss the current value of your home and marketing strategy. Ask plenty of questions about the agent and how they plan to help you sell your home. View my qualifications  or  Contact me for a free consultation.

Clean your home from top to bottom, left to right and everything in between. Also, spend a little time and effort doing small, but often neglected, repairs. Your home needs to show like a model home to command market price and sell quickly. Ask your agent for recommendations on small items, like paint and flooring, that will help you sell your home more quickly and possibly for more money. Home prep suggestions. Selling an historic home? Information about historic homes

The easier it is for buyers to arrange a viewing, the more showings you are likely to receive. Make sure to tidy up every morning before you leave. Remember, buyers aren’t paying thousands of dollars for soggy cereal in the sink.   Important information about showing your home.

4. The Offer

When you receive an offer, your agent will help you examine it for conditions like price, closing date, contingencies, etc. Depending on the terms, you may wish to accept it as it is, reject it, or counter the buyer’s offer. Your agent’s expertise in negotiations can help you decide what action to take to help you get the best price and terms. More about the offer process.

5. Inspections

The buyer will have an opportunity to conduct home inspections to make sure your home is in good condition. Don’t be surprised if there are items that you were not aware of. Home inspectors are trained to carefully examine and test all the major systems of a home for health, safety and function. The buyer will also likely ask for some repairs. Consult with your agent to determine how to handle the buyer’s request. Find out more about the inspection & repair process 

6. Moving Day

After repairs have been done, documents signed and the buyer’s loan is funded, your home will be transferred to the new buyer and you can move on to the next stage of your life!

Mary E. Diaz, GRI, AHDC, REALTOR®
Associate Broker
Master of Real Estate Society
Historic Real Estate Program, National Trust for Historic Preservation

Long Realty Company

Cell/Text: (520) 549-8769 or Toll-Free (800) 279-2211 x1661
Email: MDiaz@longrealty.com  or Text: 5205498769@message.alltel.com