Selling your home is an exciting journey, but it can also feel overwhelming without a clear plan. As a full time, dedicated REALTOR® in Fort McMurray, I know the difference a little preparation can make when it comes to getting top dollar for your property. If I were listing my house for sale tomorrow, here’s EXACTLY what I’d do to ensure a smooth and successful sale.
1. Have a Market Evaluation Completed
Knowledge is power, and understanding your home’s current market value is the first step in preparing to list. I have talked about this quite a bit in the past – a market evaluation helps to provide you with the market value of what your home could potentially sell for in today’s market. This a great way to get baseline knowledge on market value for your property. Think about it like checking your bank balance. This is a FREE service without obligation and an excellent tool for your toolbox.
2. Inquire About All Fees and Expenses
Selling a home comes with associated costs. Now that you know the market value of your property, it’s time to inquire about other fees/expenses you may encounter when selling your home. This includes but isn’t limited to: real estate fees, lawyer fees, mortgage pre-payment penalties, condominium documents, RPR or title insurance, pre-listing home inspection, and other closing costs. Knowing what costs to expect upfront helps ensure there are no surprises later on.
3. Complete a Pre-Listing Home Inspection
A pre-listing home inspection can uncover potential issues that might come up during a buyer’s inspection. Addressing any repairs or concerns beforehand can give buyers confidence and help avoid last-minute negotiations that could derail the sale (trust me when I say I have seen this happen more times than I would like to admit). This is a great way to avoid any further negotiations after the initial negotiation, plus it can help you feel at ease when proceeding with an offer to purchase.
4. Pull All Permits and Renovation Receipts
Gathering all documentation for past renovations, upgrades, or additions to your home, including permits and receipts. Buyers often want to see proof that work was done professionally and up to code. Having this ready in advance can streamline the sale process.
5. Execute the Photographer’s Preparation List
The secret to stunning listing photos is preparation. Be sure to review & execute the Photographer Preparation checklist. Your property gets 1 first impression – make it a good one! If you want a copy of my photo prep checklist, let me know and I will be sure to send it over to you!
6. Keep Home in a Showing-Ready State
Congratulations! If you have made it this far, you are ready for showings! Showings can be requested well in advance or very last minute. This may not always be possible, however try your best to keep your home in showing-ready state. Keep Rubbermaid totes nearby to toss things in if you won’t have time to tidy up. At the end of the day, you don’t want to miss an opportunity to have potential buyers view your home.
7. Communicate Regularly With Your REALTOR®
Remember, I work for YOU. I am your best friend in this transaction. I want to keep you updated and informed throughout the process and I want you to keep me aware of any changes that may arise as well. Communication is key to a successful sale, and I am never too busy to chat with you. With that, happy selling!
Thinking about selling your home in Fort McMurray? Let’s chat—I’d be happy to guide you through the process and help you get the results you deserve!