You have lived in your home for many years, making many family memories. Now, as you creep closer to retirement, you want to downsize and start a new chapter in something more manageable.
Selling a home can create stress if you do not know what to expect. From the listing process to inspection and closing, you have the benefit as the seller. Familiarize yourself with these three tips to prepare for the procedure.
1. Prepare your home for the hot summer selling months
The best time to sell a home is in the summer. Most families relocate at this time so children can start school fresh. As a seller, this gives you the best chance of getting the most traffic and making the most profit. Homes also close much quicker because of the urgency. If you live in a desirable school district, you may want to plan to get your house on the market in late spring or early summer.
2. Know that you do not have to take the first offer
Patience may run in short supply while your house is up for sale. You may want updates on showings or calls. You may want feedback on what potential buyers share. When an offer rolls around that is below your expectations, you may panic. Unless your agent indicates otherwise, you do not have to take the first offer; you can counter with a fair number.
3. Your attorney handles the closing documents
Your attorney is the coordinator of the closing documents. The firm you work with will gather or prepare all documents necessary and coordinate with the buyer’s lender to get the loan documents in-hand. You will probably not have many documents to execute, but your team is in control of many factors of closing, which can give you peace of mind.
When it is time to move forward and leave a home behind, realize that things will occur that can make you want to throw in the towel and stay. However, with the right closing team and representative, the process can run smoothly.
