Home sellers
selling process
Your Home’s Value:
Sellers
Thinking of selling your home? You could try selling it yourself, but be prepared — it takes significant time, energy, and resources. If you’re short on either, this approach may not be the best option.
Many homeowners find value in assist-to-sell programs offered by real estate agents. These programs can include yard signs, marketing strategies, and professional flyers — all designed to help sell your home efficiently and at the best possible price.
Most sellers don’t have the same access to resources or the time to manage a sale effectively. Working with a committed real estate professional ensures your property gets maximum exposure and that you achieve the highest return.
No matter which route you choose, doing your homework is essential. The checklist below can help guide you through the selling process.
Before selling, it’s essential to know your home inside and out:
1) Property Details: Be familiar with taxes, zoning, lot size, square footage, and existing loan terms.
2) Market Research: Understand local market trends, property laws, and what similar homes are selling for.
3) Set the Price: Use this information to establish a realistic and competitive listing price.
4) Financing Options: Connect with local lenders to know the financing possibilities for prospective buyers.
5) Walk-Through: Inspect your home from both a buyer’s and inspector’s perspective. Note any repairs or replacements needed to make your home move-in ready.
First impressions matter! When preparing the outside of your home:
1) Paint & Color: Repaint if colors are outdated, faded, or may not appeal to buyers.
2) Landscaping: Ensure lawns, hedges, and flower beds are neat and well-maintained.
3) Condo Exteriors: Make doors and balconies attractive and inviting.
4) Windows & Doors: Check that all are in good condition and visually appealing.
5) Roof & Gutters: Ensure they are in good shape.
6) Yard Clean-Up: Mow the lawn, trim hedges, sweep leaves, and put away toys or equipment.
A well-maintained exterior sets the tone for a positive buyer experience before they even step inside.
Creating a welcoming interior can make a huge difference with minimal investment:
1) Paint & Finishes: Freshen up walls and surfaces to make your home look well-kept and inviting.
2) Appliances: Ensure they are modern and in good working order.
3) Plumbing & Electrical: Verify all systems are fully functional.
4) Flooring: Clean or replace carpets and other floor coverings to leave a strong impression.
5) Sealants: Check sinks, showers, tubs, and windows for proper sealing.
6) Lighting: Make sure all fixtures work and each room is well-lit to highlight your home’s best features.
A polished interior helps buyers envision themselves living in the space and adds value to your listing.
Buyers aren’t just buying a home — they’re buying a lifestyle. Be ready to share information about local schools, shopping, parks, and transportation options. Knowing your neighborhood inside and out helps prospective buyers feel confident about their decision.
Selling Your Home
The Next Move Is Yours
Step 1: Defining Success
Before listing your home, it’s important to define your goals and understand the market.
1) Outline Your Objectives: Why are you selling? What’s your timeline? Where are you moving, and what matters most to you?
2) Understand the Market: Analyze local market dynamics, supply and demand, active and sold listings, and seasonal considerations to position your home strategically.
3) Strategic Planning: Highlight your home’s key features and benefits, and identify what sets it apart from other properties on the market.
At Terri Alves Homes, we help sellers combine their goals with market insights to maximize their home’s value and achieve a smooth, successful sale.
Step 2: Listing Details
Once your goals are set, it’s time to prepare your home for a successful launch on the market.
1) Finalize Documentation & Contracts: Ensure all required paperwork and agreements are complete and ready for listing.
2) Property Improvements: Make any necessary updates or repairs to enhance your home’s appeal and value.
3) Professional Staging & Photography: Work with a staging consultant and media expert to showcase your property in the best light.
4) Trusted Advisor Meeting: Review your selling strategy and finalize key decisions with your agent.
5) Launch Timeline: Set a clear schedule for when and how your property will go live.
Marketing Preparations
1) Create property marketing materials and visuals.
2) Use both traditional advertising and digital marketing for maximum reach.
3) Implement a social media strategy to target the right audience.
4) Promote your listing through the broker network and cross-marketing channels.
5) Develop a focused international buyer strategy for global exposure.
Plan a showing strategy to attract serious buyers efficiently.
At Terri Alves Homes, we handle every detail — from preparation to presentation — ensuring your home gets the attention it deserves.
Step 3: Introducing the Property
Your home is officially launched on the market with stunning visuals and a strong marketing plan to attract qualified buyers.
We promote your property through online platforms, social media, and our broker network to maximize exposure.
Safe and professional showings are arranged, and you’ll receive regular updates on buyer interest.
When offers arrive, we negotiate strategically to secure the best price and terms for your home.
Step 4: Escrow Process
Once your home is under contract, we guide you through the final steps with care and precision.
1) Complete Disclosures: All required documents are reviewed and finalized to ensure transparency and compliance.
2) Closing: We coordinate with all parties to complete the transaction smoothly and on time.
3) Transition: Assist with moving details and ensure a seamless handover of the property.
4) Final Documentation: Review and sign all closing papers to officially complete the sale.
5) Celebration: Congratulations — your sale is complete!
6) Staying Connected: We continue to provide support, resources, and guidance for future real estate needs or investment opportunities.
Local Advertising
Explore real estate sections in local newspapers and community magazines to find the most effective way to advertise your home. Many areas offer free real estate publications or “photo box” ads that include both text and photos — helping your property stand out and attract more buyers.
Don’t Forget the Internet
Online exposure is essential for selling your home. Most real estate agents feature client listings on their websites and through the full MLS network, reaching thousands of potential buyers. Many newspapers also offer online advertising alongside print ads, sometimes for an additional fee.
Check rates, deadlines, and options for each platform, then choose the ones that give your property the widest and most effective visibility in your market.
Establish a Marketing Plan
Once you know advertising costs, create a strategy to reach buyers both locally and from out-of-town. Include online advertising, since many buyers relocate from a distance. For larger towns, consider placing periodic ads in the national edition of your local newspaper to maximize exposure.
Create Your Ad
A well-written, professional ad is key to attracting buyers. Even a short classified or photo-box ad should clearly highlight your home’s best features. Consider designing larger, custom ads for newspapers or flyers for open houses to make a stronger impression.
If you’re not using full-service agent representation, an assist-to-sell program can help, offering professional marketing at a lower cost. A polished ad can make a big difference, while a poorly designed one may turn buyers away.
