What to Expect When you List Your Home
/So you know that you want to sell, you have prepared your home to list it, but now you’re wondering what all selling entails. This is what this blog is about! First things first. if you’re just at the point of thinking you want to sell and you haven’t read “The Home Selling Process and What to Expect”. I’d read that first.
Now that you have read that. If you haven’t read “How to Prepare your Home to Sell” click the button below to read that as well. That’s the next step now that you know what all the home selling process entails.
Now that you have an idea of the home selling process and how to prepare you home to sell, what actually happens once the sign goes in the yard?
Active Date
Once you sign your listing agreement, a sign will typically go in your yard, marking your home as officially for sale. The active date is when your house becomes open for showings and begins to be marketed to the public. It’s often best to list your home on a Thursday or Friday, giving potential buyers a few days before the weekend to plan visits with their agents. This strategy can maximize showings and lead to a more favorable outcome. However, you can adjust the active date based on your schedule.
Showings
When your home goes active, showings will commence. A lockbox will usually be placed on your door, allowing licensed agents to schedule tours with their clients. You have several options for managing showings: you can choose to be out for the entire day, leave for each showing, take a weekend vacation, or designate specific times that fit your schedule.
Preparing for Showings
To make a great impression, here are some essential tips for preparing your home before showings:
Take Out the Trash: Eliminate any odors that might linger.
Clean Up Clutter: Keep spaces tidy to enhance the overall appearance.
Wipe Down Countertops: A clean surface goes a long way.
Make the Beds: This simple step can make a big difference.
Get Rid of Unpleasant Smells: Address any odors from pets, cooking, etc.
Right Before and During Showings
Once you’ve prepared, it’s time to consider how to manage your pets. You can:
Take them with you
Kennel them in a room, basement, garage, or outside (weather permitting)
During showings, it’s best for you to leave the home. This can be stressful, but it allows potential buyers to explore freely and envision themselves in the space. If you’re present, it may create an awkward atmosphere and make buyers feel rushed, potentially impacting their interest.
If leaving isn’t possible, discuss other options with your agent.
Showings can last anywhere from 10 minutes to over an hour, so planning a day out with family or visiting friends can make this process easier. You can also restrict the duration of each showing if necessary.
Keep in mind that while some homes sell within a weekend, others might take a few weeks. Mentally preparing for repeated showings is essential in order to successfully sell your home.
What Happens During Showings?
During showings, expect the agent and their clients to thoroughly walk through your home. They may:
Open doors
Turn on lights
Check under sinks
Test faucets or flush toilets
Peek into the attic or crawl space, if accessible
Agents should treat your home with respect, ensuring they turn off lights and lock all doors after their visit.
I Accepted an Offer, Now What?
Congratulations! You’re under contract. While you’re done with showings, there’s still some work ahead. The buyers will typically have an inspection period, during which they can hire professionals to inspect the property. Just like during showings, you’ll need to prepare to leave during their scheduled inspection time, which usually lasts 2-3 hours. After the inspection period is over, you can take a deep breath and start packing!
The only other time someone might come over is for the appraisal or if the buyer requests additional visits and you agree.
What to expect at closing?
A few days prior to closing the buyers will most likely schedule a final walkthrough to make sure the home is still in good condition.
Closing day is the final step in the home-selling process, where ownership officially transfers to the buyer. On this day, you’ll meet with your agent at the title company, along with a representative from the title company or attorney’s office. Be prepared to review and sign several important documents, including the settlement statement, deed transfer, and any disclosures required by your state. You may also need to provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or passport, and any documents related to repairs or warranties discussed during negotiations. Once all paperwork is completed and funds are disbursed, you can hand over the keys and celebrate this significant milestone!
I hope this guide has cleared up some questions or concerns you might have had about the home-selling process! Best of luck as you navigate this exciting journey!
