What should you expect over the next few weeks?
Every transaction follows its own path, but this is a general idea of what you can expect.
1. Paperwork
This is where we set the wheels in motion. We’ll walk you through signing the listing paperwork and required disclosures, ensuring every detail is covered. Once this step is complete, we can officially start preparing your home for the market. Quick, straightforward, and essential to getting your home ready to shine.
2. Media Day
Lights, camera, action! Our professional photographers and videographers capture your home in its best light with high-quality photos, videos, and tours. This is the day your home becomes a star, showcasing everything it has to offer to potential buyers. You want your home to look PERFECT on this day.
3. Coming Soon
We typically start receiving the processed photos and videos within 1-2 business days after your Media Day. This is the teaser stage where we start running ads to build excitement. We can start scheduling showings for a later date, but we cannot actually show the home until it is listed as Active.
4. Active Listing
Your "Coming Soon" phase transitions into a full launch as your home is entered into the MLS and then pushes out across platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com. Your custom page also goes live on our website, and marketing campaigns kick into high gear. Showings can now be scheduled, and we’ll keep you updated on all activity.
5. Receive an Offer
When an offer comes in, we’ll walk you through all the details—price, timelines, and contingencies—so you fully understand what’s on the table. If there’s more than one, we’ll discuss strategies to make the most of your options. Whether you accept, counter, or decline, we’re here to guide you to the best decision for your goals.
6. Accepted Contract
Congrats, your hard work has paid off! With the contract signed, the buyer’s lender begins their financing process, and we’ll send the agreement to the title company to prep for closing. This is a great time to celebrate—but remember, there are still a few steps to go, and we’ll guide you through each one as they arrive.
7. Inspections
During the inspection window (commonly 7-10 days), buyers schedule professionals to evaluate the home. These might include general, termite, or radon inspections. You’ll need to be out of the house for these appointments, and we’ll ensure you’re informed of the schedule. Once reports are completed, we’ll review any findings together and determine the best way to respond to requests.
8. Request to Remedy
At the end of the inspection period, buyers can submit a Request to Remedy, listing items they’d like addressed. We’ll review this list together and help you decide how to respond. You’ll have a set number of days (commonly 3) to reach an agreement, and any repairs must be completed before closing.
9. Appraisal
The buyer’s lender schedules an appraisal to confirm the home’s value aligns with the agreed price. This process ensures financing moves forward smoothly. We’ll coordinate access for the appraiser and keep you informed. If the appraisal report raises any concerns, we’ll guide you on the next steps to address them efficiently.
10. Clear to Close
We’ve hit the home stretch! With financing approved and all paperwork in order, it’s time to prepare for the grand finale. This is the moment to double-check any last details, plan your move, and savor the feeling of a successful sale. This is the home-selling equivalent of a mic drop—one last step, and we’ll be handing over the keys (and maybe celebrating with a happy dance).
11. Final Walk-Thru
Before closing, the buyer may do a final walk-thru to check repairs, verify the home’s condition, or measure for furniture. This usually happens within 48 hours of closing. If you’ve made repairs, leave the paperwork out for review. While some moving clutter is expected, aim to keep the home as tidy as possible to ensure a smooth finish.
12. Closing
It’s time to seal the deal! You’ll sign the final paperwork to complete the sale, either at our office or the title company. Bring a valid photo ID and account details for how you’d like to receive your proceeds—either a wire transfer or a check. If applicable, your spouse will also need to sign. Once everything is finalized (including the buyer's signatures), your home sale is officially complete!
13. Celebrate
You just sold your home and completed one of the most stressful events of your life. Celebrate the win for a moment before heading back to the reality of moving boxes. You've earned it.
14. Possession
Depending on your contract, possession of the home will either transfer at closing or on a negotiated date. If it’s immediate, you’ll provide keys, garage door openers, etc, at closing. For delayed possession, we’ll help coordinate the exchange of keys with the buyer or their agent. Either way, we’ll ensure a smooth handoff and help finalize this final step of the process.
Pro Tip
Q. How do you eat an elephant?
A. One bite at a time.
Don't let the process overwhelm you. As long as you stay focused on each step, you'll look back after closing day and realize you've completed one of the more stressful events of your life... and it wasn't all that intimidating.
Plus, we'll be right by your side with advice and guidance the whole way.