Real estate sales have changed drastically in recent years, with competitive and diverse offers being made to sellers from investors and buyers. At Lakeside Title Company, we work with realtors, lenders, consumers, builders, commercial teams, and investors each and every day to make their sales process and final transactions go smoothly. Here’s what we found should be the top five things to have on your sellers’ checklist.
- Prepare the Property
Start with decluttering and removing personal effects from both inside and outside the property. Aim for a staged, tidy look, free of any excess, unnecessary, or personal items on the walls, surfaces, or floors. Kitchens and bathrooms should be deep cleaned with countertops clear. Repair any plumbing or electrical problems and cracks in the foundation, driveway, or sidewalk. Ensure that each space is well-lit and that landscaping is well-maintained during the sales process.
- Gather Documentation
Organize all of the paperwork that will be needed for sale, such as deeds, property tax records, homeowners association documents, and any applicable warranties or disclosures. If this is your first sale or you’re just getting started, check out Lakeside’s frequently asked questions. - Select Your Team of Professionals
Work to find a real estate agent, settlement officer, and attorney that you trust to guide you through the sales process. Write down your most important questions to ask each professional you speak with, such as what their role is, what they will do to help you sell the property, how much their commission is, and how they expect the sale to proceed with your particular property. Meet our team at Lakeside Title Company!
- Set an Appropriate Price
Research the immediate area and what similar properties have sold for recently. Work with your real estate agent to set a mutually agreeable price for your property. Think through your negotiating factors and ideal sales timeline, and discuss this with your real estate agent. - Prepare for Closing Day
Read Lakeside Title Company’s closing day guide, and learn more about our e-closing, and Remote Online Notarization (RON).
The Lakeside team is here to make your property our priority, so don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.