Your satisfaction and happiness is very important to The Real Estate Team Ramani. We understand how hectic selling a house can be. In fact, when not handled properly, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. Team Ramani has condensed the process of selling a home into 5 simple steps, to make it easy on you and your family.
Step 1: Decide to Sell
When you sell, timing is one of the most important considerations. It's all about supply and demand and if you try to sell in a "buyers market" you won't usually get top dollar because there are more homes than buyers at the time. Season is another important consideration, and spring is a better time to sell than winter, because that's when most people shop for homes.
If you want to get more for your home, you need to increase its appeal or value. When you have few financial resources, something as simple as repainting can make a big difference. Of course, remodelling part or all of the property can be a very good idea if you have the money.
Simple things like keeping the lawn mowed and clean can make a huge difference. When buyers see a lovely lawn and clean exterior, it looks like you have taken good care of the property, and they are more likely to check it out.
Many buyers want a home inspection before making an offer, so if this is already done, you'll save a lot of time and trouble. Plus, an inspection may reveal problems you need to take care of, in order to get top dollar. Before you put up the"for sale" sign, talk to a real estate pro!
Step 2: Hire an Agent
Toronto has literally thousands of real estate agents, so how does one choose the best one? Be thorough in your agent search. These people will act on your behalf during the selling process, so you need knowledgeable, experienced, and trustworthy professionals for the job. Here are some suggestions for finding an agent:
- Check out “For Sale” signs.
- Ask people you know for personal referrals.
- Contact real estate offices in your area.
Your agent should be honest, experienced, and very familiar with your neighbourhood. Look for agents specializing in personal service and willing to go the extra mile for you.
Step 3: List your Home
A good agent does a walkthrough appraisal, but before helping you determine an asking price, he or she will compile a detailed report on market data and property sale prices in your area and how they relate to your home. This is the best way to determine home value and prices.
Once a price is set and your home is listed, your agent goes to work marketing your property through several effective channels. This may include MLS, social media, newspapers, flyers, and websites. This helps to create a strong buyer interest in your home.
Your agent offers open house events, so more than one buyer can tour your home in a day. You also have a great deal of assistance with home staging, as this helps the buyers place themselves in your home, mentally.
Step 4: Receive an Offer
Not all buyer offers are good offers and some may not even be worth considering. This is why it is so important to have an experienced negotiator on your side. However, regardless of the offer, your agent will present it to you and go over all the "pros" and cons" and provide professional advice on whether to accept it or not
Price is only one aspect to consider. For example, you can sweeten an offer by including appliances, fixtures and perhaps make minor improvements. In addition, you can shorten or lengthen closing dates if needed.
You may need to go through several offers and counter offers in order to sell, and your agent is there to help you make the right decisions.
Step 5: Close the Sale
Once you accept the offer, you'll need to close. Certain expenses need to be paid before the sale in finalized. Then, ownership and keys are transferred to the buyers. Before you know it, you house is officially sold!