Sellers
Why use an agent?
Selling a home takes more than just putting a "for sale"
sign out front. You need an agent with experience and training
to help you determine the right price, come up with an effective
marketing strategy, and anticipate and solve any problems that
come up during the selling process. A real estate professional
can help you with every part of selling your home, and offer you
a smoother, hassle-free experience.
When you're selling your home, there are a number of advantages
to working with an agent:
- He/she knows real estate values in your neighbourhood and
will help price your home competitively by preparing a market
analysis of homes that have sold, competing homes that are still
on the market and homes that were on the market but didn't sell.
- He/she will establish a marketing strategy for your home,
ensuring that it's exposed to as many potential buyers as possible.
- He/she takes care of the tasks involved in selling a house,
ensuring that the transaction is simple and low-stress for you.
- He/she is an expert in the home selling process and will advise
you of your rights, options and obligations.
- He/she is an experienced negotiator and will work for you
to get you the best possible price.
Effective marketing for your home
An agent can help you market your home by exposing it to as many
potential buyers as possible. The first step is putting it on
the MLS. But listing your property is only the beginning; your
agent will prepare a personalized plan that includes everything
he/she plans to do to sell your property. At Royal LePage, your
property will be aggressively promoted through:
- A posting on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
- Royal LePage property advertising publications
- The Royal LePage web site
- Other Royal LePage offices and real estate professionals
- Mailings to potential buyers in your area
Preparing your home for an inspection
If you're selling your home, be prepared for a visit from a home
inspector, who will be checking out the property on behalf of
possible purchasers. Take a look through your home using these
steps, and repair any problems to ensure that your inspection
is a success.
1. Make sure the structure is sound.
Check to see if any renovations have damaged the structure. Look
for termite damage. Ensure that "settling" hasn't caused
damage to the foundation or support beams and joists.
2. Check if electrical and wiring systems are safe.
Loose wires or incorrectly installed or wired receptacles, switches
or electrical box problems are hazardous and should be fixed.
All homes should have a minimum of 100 amp service.
3. Look for leaks.
Water can leak into unexpected places, causing extensive
damage over time. Examine the underside of sinks and dishwashers,
along ceilings, on floors or along basement walls. Plumbing fixtures,
water-using appliances, drain pipes, water supply inlets and outlets,
basements and roofs can all be causes and sources of water damage.
4. Resolve safety issues.
Make sure windows open easily and lock securely, and entrances/exits
can be securely locked. Correct hazards such as hidden curbs,
loose railings and stairs, uncapped wells, etc.
5. Check plumbing.
Faucets should run easily and shut off completely, bathtubs
should be properly caulked and grouted, toilets should be bolted
down securely, drains should be clog free, and the water heater
should be in good working order.
6. Make sure your heating and cooling systems work.
Make sure they are up to date, clean, in good working condition
and have clean filters. Check refrigerant in air conditioning
units.
7. Have a friend take a look.
A general, unbiased overview of your home by a neighbour
or friend may reveal issues you might have overlooked.
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