Selling a house can be overwhelming for any homeowner. You might even wonder how to begin if you’re new to this. Look no further because this guide will help you navigate the process in ten steps. You will also find tips like posting your house on Minnesota real estate listings to boost your chances of finding a buyer. Let’s start!
- Make a plan
A home selling plan will help you determine your timeline for the entire process. It can guide you on when to find a real estate agent or broker, time the sale if you are buying a new home, and other important decisions.
- Know the costs of selling a house
Selling a house comes with costs, whether you do it yourself or hire an agent. These expenses are related to preparing and staging your home, listing fees, and Realtor costs. Don’t forget to factor in the moving expenses, capital gains tax, and closing costs.
- Hire a credible listing agent
Make sure it’s a licensed real estate agent or broker with extensive experience in Minnesota real estate listings. To save money, opt for a flat-fee Realtor that offers packages that can sell your home faster through local listings, like the MLS.
- Prepare your house
Maximize the available space in your house by cleaning up, doing minimal repairs and significant improvements, and decluttering. Additionally, book a pre-sale home inspector to boost the confidence of any buyer.
- Do some marketing
You need a good marketing strategy that can help attract more buyers to your home. Your listing agent should be able to help with this, especially with tasks like staging your house, taking pictures, and setting the optimum selling price.
- Remember to disclose certain details about your home to avoid a lawsuit
Disclosure documents will provide critical details about your home’s condition, which a potential buyer might question. Be honest and share any existing problems or concerns, such as water damage, environmental contamination, repairs, risk of natural disasters, and neighborhood noise.
- Show your home
Only show your home when your agent has listed it on Minnesota real estate listings or the local MLS. You can do this by holding an open house or allowing potential buyers to schedule private showings.
- Review offers before accepting them
A committed buyer should put their offer in writing through a purchase agreement, which you must discuss with your real estate agent. Make sure the buyer shows their proof of funds and pre-approval letter and how much they can deposit. Additionally, check if the buyer wants their offer to be contingent, as it will allow them to back out and get their money back.
- Closing process
Closing a home sale is a complex process that entails several critical milestones, including the buyer’s appraisal, inspections, and the removal of contingencies. Each of these milestones must be successfully navigated to ensure a smooth and successful sale transaction.
- Close the sale
Once the buyer releases their contingencies, the sale can move forward to the final stage. This involves conducting a final walkthrough to ensure the property is in the same condition as when the sale agreement was signed and all agreed-upon repairs have been completed. After the walkthrough, the buyer and seller sign the final documents, and the closing process begins. During closing, the buyer and seller will transfer funds, sign the final closing documents, and officially transfer ownership of the property. This process typically takes a few hours; once it is completed, the buyer will receive the keys to their new home.
Need help in selling your home?
Our team here at Real Estate Corners has been experts at Minnesota real estate listings for over 20 years. We offer flat-fee real estate service packages to make selling your home faster and more cost-effective for you. Contact us today so we can start!