What should you expect over the next few weeks?
No two homes (or home sales) are exactly alike, but most follow a rhythm. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what’s coming — from first signatures to final handoff — so you can stay a step ahead, feel prepared, and know what’s normal along the way.
1. Paperwork
This is where everything begins. We’ll walk you through the listing paperwork, required disclosures, and all the fine print that makes it official. Once these are signed, your listing becomes real, and we shift our focus to preparing your home for the market.
2. Media Day
Your home’s big debut. Our professional photographers and videographers will capture it in its best light... literally. We’ll photograph every room, shoot lifestyle-driven video, and create 3D tours to give buyers a reason to obsess over your listing. You’ll want everything perfect for this day, because this content is what drives showings.
3. Coming Soon
Once the photos and video are processed (usually 1–2 business days), we launch teaser ads and begin promoting the listing across digital channels. This builds buzz before showings begin, like trailers before a movie premiere. We’ll also start scheduling showing appointments for the official launch date.
4. Active on Market
This is your go-live moment. Your listing hits the MLS and syndicates out to sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin. Your custom listing page on our website goes live, and marketing campaigns hit full throttle. Showings can now begin, and we’ll keep you updated on interest, activity, and feedback.
5. Receive an Offer
When an offer comes in, we’ll help you understand every piece... price, terms, financing, timing, and contingencies. If there are multiple offers, we’ll create a strategy to maximize your outcome. You’re never deciding in a vacuum; we’ll talk through the pros and cons of every option... together.
6. Accept an Offer
Once you’ve accepted an offer, the buyer’s lender starts the financing process, and the title company preps for closing. This is the stage when your sale becomes pending and when we help manage what’s ahead, so you don’t feel stuck in limbo. There are plenty of hurdles left to clear... but today is a good day :-)
7. Inspections
The buyer will schedule a series of inspections (general, termite, radon, etc.) during an agreed timeframe (7–10 days is typical). You’ll need to be out of the home during these appointments. Once the reports come in, we’ll review any findings together and help you plan your response.
8. Remedy Request
Based on inspections, the buyer may submit a list of requested repairs. You’ll have a few days (typically 3) to respond. We’ll weigh the options, negotiate when needed, and help you decide which fixes make sense. If agreed upon, all repairs need to be completed before closing.
9. Appraisal
To secure their loan, the buyer’s lender will send an appraiser to confirm that your home’s value matches the purchase price. We’ll handle scheduling and provide comps if needed. If the appraisal comes in lower than expected, don’t worry, we’ll walk you through every available option.
10. Clear to Close
This is the green light from the lender: financing is final, paperwork is done, and closing is scheduled. At this point, you can start packing, confirm moving logistics, and exhale a little — the finish line is in sight.
11. WalkThrough
Usually 24–48 hours before closing, the buyer will do a final walkthrough to confirm repairs were made and the home is in expected condition. If you’ve done agreed-upon fixes, leave the paperwork out for review. While some packing clutter is fine, try to keep things clean and calm for a smooth handoff.
12. Closing
You’ll sign the final documents either at the title office or a location you choose. Bring a valid photo ID and routing info for your proceeds (wire or check). Once the buyer signs, the sale is official — and you’re no longer a homeowner.
13. Celebrate
You just sold your home — one of the most emotional and high-stakes events most people ever navigate. Take a breath. Do a happy dance. Then maybe pour a glass of wine before you tackle the next phase of your move.
14. Possession
This depends on your contract. Some buyers take possession immediately at closing, while others wait a few days. We’ll coordinate the key handoff, garage openers, and any final logistics to make sure everything is clear and smooth.
Final Thought
How do you eat an elephant?
One bite at a time.
This process can feel big — but that’s why we’re here. We’ll help you handle each step as it comes, and before you know it, you’ll be on the other side, wondering why it didn’t feel as overwhelming as you expected.