If you’re a first-time seller, you might have some questions before you even think about listing your home. Don’t worry—that’s completely normal! Before you get overwhelmed by the details, take a deep breath—we’ve got all the info you need to make you a selling pro in no time.
Shop Around for the Right Agent
One of the first things you should do if you’re selling your home is work with the right agent. If you were happy with agent you used to buy your home, you might want to consider using them again. If you’d like to try someone else or would prefer to go with a selling specialist, it’s time to do some research.
It’s easy for a first-time seller to go with the first agent that catches their eye, but be sure to ask plenty of questions before committing. Some of the most important factors include their commission fee, their marketing strategies, how many listings they’ve closed in your area, and any other burning questions.
Remember to be Flexible
If you want to get your home sold quickly, it’s important to be able to leave at a moment’s notice. It’s no secret that showings sell homes, but it can sometimes be a hassle to schedule your life around so many appointments.
Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be completely hectic. If you’re a first-time seller, be sure to keep your home as clean as possible. This prevents last-minute scrambling to make everything look perfect before buyers come in. You might also want to have a plan for what to do during showings—they’re a great time to run errands or hang out with friends.
Consider All the Costs
There are some hidden costs to home-selling that you’ll want to be familiar with before you list. If you’ve already found an agent, you’ll likely be familiar with their commission policies. Additionally, you might want to consider setting money aside for staging, repairs, movers, and closing costs. These fees can add up, so be sure to factor those into the sale price of your home.
This is also a good time to review your mortgage on your current home. Once you sell your home, you have to pay off the rest of your mortgage. This can decrease the amount of money you’ll have for your next home depending on how much you owe, so crunch the numbers beforehand!
Prepare for After the Sale
One of the most common mistakes a first-time seller can make is not considering what goes on after the sale. Right after you accept an offer, you should line up a moving company and begin packing your belongings. You might also need to make some repairs if the buyers requested them.
If you want to really get a head start, you can start decluttering and packing up unused belongings before you even list your home. This is a great way to get organized, and best of all, you’ll have less work to do when the pressure is on.
Ready to Sell?
If you’re a first-time seller, we understand that you have unique needs. The Shaffer Team is here to help you navigate the selling process from beginning to end. We’re Central Ohio experts, and if you have any questions, we’d love to chat. Give us a call if you need anything—we’re ready to get your home sold!