Before Listing Your Home
Even in a seller's market, you'll want to do more than just stick a "for sale" sign in your front yard to really attract buyers. If you want to maximize your return on investment and sell fast, a little prep work is in order—and it'll definitely pay off in the long run!
2+ months out
Find an experienced local real estate agent
First and foremost, you'll want to establish a connection with a great Middle Tennessee real estate agent. The right agent will have experience in your area and price range, especially if you're selling a niche property. Don't be afraid to interview a few potential agents before making a decision—you want to make sure you're working with someone you can trust.
6 – 8 weeks out
Consider repairs and improvements
Most agents will want to tour your property before it hits the market and offer advice for potential repairs and improvements. Even if your home seems move-in ready, it's best to heed your agent's advice—making a few updates can actually help you sell faster and for more money.
Start by taking care of any necessary repairs, both major and minor. From there, focus on more aesthetic touches—I recommend painting your walls in neutral tones, updating your fixtures and hardware, and sprucing up your landscaping.
4 – 8 weeks out
Price it right
Even the most beautiful home on the block can sit on the market if it's not properly priced. While it may be tempting to turn to an automatic online estimator, your agent can give you a better idea of what your home or land is actually worth. They'll be able to set a price that will draw in buyers, all without sacrificing any of your equity.
1 – 4 weeks out
Get your home ready
Staging your home is the easiest way to make a lasting first impression on buyers. Even just a little staging can go a long way—and you don't have to spend a lot of time or money to get your space looking showroom-worthy.
Start by decluttering your home and getting rid of any large furniture, knickknacks, or other belongings you don't use on a regular basis. You should also make an effort to depersonalize your home as much as possible—do this by removing any family photos, memorabilia, or any other taste-specific decor. Don't forget to clean your home (or hire a cleaning service) to get it looking its best, too.
Listing Your Home
Now that you've tackled all the prep work, it's time to officially put your home on the market. Here's what to expect as you search for the right buyer.
Marketing
Reach the greatest number of buyers
Your agent will be responsible for marketing your home to qualified buyers. To reach the broadest possible audience, they should use a multi-faceted marketing approach that involves the MLS, social media promotion, print advertising, or even word of mouth. Most agents also host open houses, as well as other in-person events to promote the listing.
If your agent is particularly well-connected, they may be able to match your home with a buyer from their network of contacts!
Showings
Let buyers take a tour
It's no secret that most buyers start their searches online—but if someone is truly interested in your property, they'll schedule an in-person tour before making an offer. To ensure your home is showing-ready at all times, establish a regular cleaning schedule and keep your space staged. Additionally, you should be ready to clear out of the house during showings to avoid making buyers uncomfortable.
Dealing with offers
Negotiate and accept an offer
When a buyer is interested in your home, they'll submit an offer that details how much they'll pay, their mortgage amount, closing and occupancy dates, and any contingencies. From there, the ball is in your court: you can accept the offer as-is, counter back with modified terms, or decline. It's normal to go back and forth with a buyer to negotiate a deal, so don't be afraid to ask your agent for advice.
The Closing Process
You've almost sold your home! Here's how to ensure a successful closing.
Due diligence
Cooperate with home inspections & appraisals
Once you're under contract, most buyers will want an inspection and appraisal to make sure there aren't any problems with the home. During the inspection, a licensed inspector comes in to check for any issues, particularly with the roof, heating and cooling systems, structure, plumbing, and electrical systems.
If the buyer is taking out a mortgage, their lender may order an appraisal. Appraisals help make sure the lender isn't letting a buyer borrow more money than a home is worth. And if you're selling land, the buyer may also request a perc, soil, or water test.
Waiting in escrow
Gather some paperwork
During this stage, you and your agent will work with an escrow company to sign all the pre-closing paperwork. Your buyer will spend this time finalizing their loan, checking the title, and doing their final walkthrough of your home.
Finally... the close!
Sign, collect & hand over your keys
On a pre-determined date, you and your agent will sit down and sign all the final paperwork, pay any fees, and hand over your keys. The buyer and their agent may or may not be present during this process. Once the title has been transferred, you've successfully sold your home!
Ready to Sell Your Home in Middle Tennessee?
Thinking about selling your land or home in the Franklin area? I'd love to help! Get in touch with me today to take the next step towards listing. I look forward to helping you maximize your equity in today's hot real estate market!