Home Seller's Checklist

Most home sellers choose to use a Real Estate Professional to help them with their largest investment.  Be SURE to choose a Broker with the Realtor designation as they are licensed and must adhere to the standards as set forth by the local Real Estate board, the Colorado State association, and the national association. 

When choosing a Realtor, the most used source is a reference from family, friends or co-workers.  Be sure they have had a positive experience with an Agent.  You can also check your local newspapers and home magazines, or there are various Internet sites available to find a Realtor.

Other aspects to review when choosing an Agent include:

  • A sense of professionalism.
  • A full-time Broker committed to the profession.
  • Familiar with the area in which your home is located.
  • Familiar with the price range in which your house will be listed.
  • Evidence of marketing ability and advertising.
  • References from previous sellers.

HOME SELLING CHECKLIST:

  • Be an informed seller.  Either have an appraisal done yourself, or have a Realtor provide a market analysis.  Even if you opt for the market analysis, do your own research and see what other properties in your area have sold for.  Having your home priced right is the most important factor in selling a home in the timeframe you choose.  Some factors that affect the price of your home include:
    • Location
    • Condition
    • Desired amenities
  • Know what you can and cannot change about your house.  This allows you to concentrate on those items that bring the highest reward.
  • Spend time on the house preparation phase – it will probably be the most productive time you can spend.  Most Realtors know what attracts buyers, but definitely “de-clutter” your home.  If necessary, have a yard sale before your list.  Sell, donate, trash or store everything you don’t need.  Be sure the home has a fresh appearance and is clean.  Fix any small issues that would detract from the home including screens, nicks on the walls, broken glass, etc.  Do what is necessary to make your house stand out from the competition.
  • If you have not already done so, for tax purposes, you should develop a record of all home improvements made to your home.
  •  Decide how quickly you want to sell.  This will determine whether you hold out for top dollar or if you are willing to let the home go slightly under market value.
  • Decide whether you want to offer a Home Warranty with you house.
  • Discuss a marketing plan with your Realtor.  This will determine whether you will have an open house, a sign on the property, or other types of advertising.
  • Know how your home will be shown.  If you have pets or children, be sure to communicate the best times or if you can be ready for your home to be shown at all times. 

For Maximum Advantage at SHOWTIME:

  • Give family members assigned jobs in advance that will go into action when a short-notice showing is scheduled
  • Open every window covering to let in maximum light and turn on as many lights as possible – Buyers like a home to be “Light & Bright!”
  • Make sure the home smells good
  • Six VERY IMPORTANT words – “no clutter, no clutter, no clutter!”
  • Make sure the house is clean – pay special attention to the bathrooms and kitchen
  • Check the thermostat to be sure the home is at a comfortable temperature
  • Remove pets from the home, or at least keep them outside
  • Make sure “Flyers” or “Fact Sheets” are available and easily accessible
  • If you are using a Broker, leave! 
  • When a contract comes in, be sure you have chosen a Realtor who will be working for you and will be sure the best deal possible is negotiated with a closing time that is conducive to your needs.

What a Real Estate Sales Contract Will Include:

  • WHAT:  A legal description of the property as well as the street address
  • HOW MUCH:  The selling price
  • MORTGAGE CONTINGENCY: Subject to obtaining a mortgage, the specifics of the mortgage, and the number of days in which to make application
  • DEPOSIT:  How much money accompanies the contract and who will hold it
  • CLOSING:  When and where
  • HOME INSPECTION:  Contingency for and the number of days to be performed in
  • WARRANTIES:  Any that are included with the home and a description of the warranty
  • CONOMINIUM, ASSOCITION, OR HOMEOWER’S DUES:  A review period specified in the contract
  • WELL AND SEPTIC:  If applicable, they should be tested and passed
  • PEST INSPECTION:  Who will pay if there is infestation or damage and who will repair
  • POSSESSION DATE:  When the buyers will take possession of the home
  • ACCEPTANCE:  How long the sellers have to respond to the offer with either acceptance or a counter-offer
  • ARBITRATION:  Any provisions for arbitration or disputes
  • INSURANCE:  Whose insurance covers the property up until the closing date and verification that the buyer can receive insurance
  • PROPERTY DISCLOSURES:  Notices of any property disclosures concerning the house
  • Make plans for moving.
  • Review closing instructions and be able to attend the closing.
  • Smile and breathe a sigh – your home is sold!

The sales process could take as little as 30 days and up depending on whether the buyer has another home to sell, the lending process is in order, your home passes inspections and appraisals or if there are any other discrepancies.