• Ask the agent to provide you with a list of satisfied clients. If you have time, call a few to see what it is they liked about the services offered.

• Interview agents to determine who best understands your timetable and the urgency associated with your move.

• Ask for a Brokers Market Analysis (BMA). Projected time on market and selling price will be estimated, based on recent similar sales and current competing properties.

• Ask for a Good Faith Estimate which includes seller cost obligations typical for your area.

  • Inspections

  • Title Search/Insurance Costs

  • Survey Costs

  • Closing Costs

• A good sales associate will explain all forms and legal documents which you may be requested to sign. Ask for a review of the sales contract and how the agent will help you determine that you are not paying any unnecessary costs requested by a buyers agent.

• Use the services of a real estate agent who can offer a home warranty. A warranted home often sells faster and at a higher price.

• Your agent should insist that all potential buyers be preapproved for a mortgage and have written proof when submitting an offer. This can be done through ERA Mortgage, click here for “FREE” Loan Approval: BUTTON

• Effective advertising differs in form. Ask the potential listing agent to show you statistics on what is the best media to attract buyers. You may be surprised it is generally not the local newspaper!

• Work with an agent who will regularly stay in touch to report on the selling progress of your home and offer feedback from prospective buyers and other agents. Your agent should review your competitive selling position every 30 days.

• Your agent needs to be internet savvy. Will your home be listed on the “web”? Will they be able to email you with progress reports and other information.

OUTDOOR MAINTENANCE

• Apply fertilizer and weed killer

• Pull weeds from flower beds

• Add mulch or rock around trees

• Trim trees and shrubs, replace dead ones

• Plant flowers, particularly around the entry

• Consider planting a few small shrubs or trees

• Keep grass neatly trimmed and edged

• Keep sidewalks, porches, patios and decks swept clean

• In winter, keep walk and driveway shoveled and ice-free

• Clean garage. Throw away, sell or donate extra items

• Clean or paint siding, shutters, doors

   

INDOOR MAINTENANCE

• Wash or paint walls and woodwork to eliminate smudges

• Wash all windows to sparkling

• Clean window treatments

• Clean light fixtures and install high wattage bulbs to brighten rooms

• Shampoo carpets Polish hardwood or tile floors

• Remove extra boxes and clothes from closets to add space

• Clean all appliances. Remove clutter from countertops

• Replace drip pans on range

• Scrub bathroom sinks, tubs, showers and bowls.

• Replace damaged or missing caulk

• Repair leaky faucets and loose knobs

• Clean basement. Neatly store extra items and tools. Consider offsite storage

PRIOR TO A SHOWING

• Clean yard and remove all toys, tools, hoses, etc.

• Wash and store all dishes

• Open all drapes/blinds for each showing

• Turn on all lights.

• Put pets in a kennel or outside on a leash

• Eliminate unpleasant odors (pets, smoke, baby’s room)

• Turn off radio and television sets

• Do not accompany the prospects or the sales associate unless invited by your agent. It is usually better to let the agent do the talking, since s/he is familiar with the buyer’s preferences.

• Work with your sales associate as a team to market your home