Let’s make a list! What do you find on a prelist checklist? Here’s what Realtor.com says you will need.

Documentation and Paperwork

1. Recent Tax Assessments: For valuation and potential buyer questions. Your real estate agent can find this for you.
2. Mortgage Statement: To understand the remaining balance and payoff amounts. The title company will send the payoff to your mortgage company at closing.
3. Warranty Information: For appliances or previous repairs.
4. Home Improvement Records: For updates and renovations made on the property.

Financial Preparations

1. Pricing Strategy: Research comparative market analysis (CMA). Your realtor will provide this for you.
2. Cost Estimates: Know the costs involved in selling, such as closing costs, agent fees, etc. We provide a detailed estimate of costs when your we come to talk to you about selling your property.

Property Maintenance

1. Home Repairs: Fix minor issues like leaky faucets, broken tiles, or faulty door handles.
2. Landscaping: Mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and add some flowers for curb appeal.
3. Declutter and Clean: A clean home is more attractive to buyers.
4. Professional Staging: Consider staging key rooms to increase the property’s appeal.
5. Pre-listing Inspection: Optional, but can identify issues that could become stumbling blocks later. Go to the street and look at your home like a buyer would look at your home. What do you see that is not appealing?

Marketing Preparations

1. Professional Photos: High-quality pictures can make your listing stand out. We will hire a professional photographer for your pictures. This will include a floor plan sketch that we will post online in the Multiple Listing Service.
2. Virtual Tour: Especially useful in the digital age and in light of health concerns.
3. Feature List: Create a list of features and improvements for potential buyers.

Legal Preparations

1. Disclosure Forms: Fill out property and neighborhood disclosure forms required by your state. Your real estate agent will provide the blank forms for you to complete.

Agent and Listing

1. Choose an Agent: If you haven’t already, find a real estate agent who knows the local market well.
2. MLS Listing: Make sure all details are accurate.
3. Signage and Lockbox: Your realtor will want a key to your door. They will arrange to get these installed and ready for showings.

Personal Preparations

1. Emotional Readiness: Selling a home can be emotionally taxing; prepare yourself mentally for the process.
2. Plan for Showings: Know how you’ll manage pets, kids, or other logistical details during showings.

We are ready to help. We can walk through your home and suggest ways to get your home ready for a quick and easy sale! Call or text 231-730-8781.

Marilyn Tucker