Is it time to move on from your current home? As exciting as this milestone may be, it is also an involved process. Many people recommend eliminating home clutter, making minor house renovations, or doing landscaping work prior to putting your property on the real estate market. However, you should also do some non-home improvement preparation to sell the property fast for the desired price.

What to Do Before Listing

1. Obtain the Necessary Documents

Gather all the documents you need to streamline your home sale. This includes the deed and title, original sales contract, home maintenance and repair records, insurance and mortgage information, tax records, past property survey and home inspection records, and homeowners association documents. Have past utility bills on hand, as well as all equipment and appliance manuals and warranties.

These items prove that you own your home and do not have any outstanding tax liens or property discrepancy issues. They also show that the property has been taken care of.

2. Find the Right Agent

Research real estate agents who have experience working in the region and with your specific market, such as a farm property or coastline residence. Narrow your selection to a few agents and conduct interviews in person if possible before making a final decision. You want an agent with experience and who is responsive to your needs—willing to answer questions until you feel comfortable.

3. Determine the Best Time to Sell

Discuss the right time to sell your home with your agent. Compare the real estate listing prices for homes similar to yours in your neighborhood by season. Usually, some rules of thumb apply. For example, there is usually a high demand for houses in the winter—meaning you might be able to list higher and will likely sell the house quicker.

4. Prepare for a Land Survey & Home Inspection

Get your property ready for a home inspection and land survey by ensuring the property is up to code and all permits are valid. Refer to your original home inspection and land survey reports to check for unresolved issues that can affect the sale of your house, such as oil drums buried somewhere on the property. Fixing any issues now keeps your listing price where you want it. 

If you plan to sell a home in the north-central Arkansas or south-central Missouri regions, rely on the licensed real estate agents at Gilbert Realty Co. The firm streamlines residential and commercial property sales while offering plenty of resources about buying and selling in the Ozarks. Call (870) 425-6282 today with questions or to request a free DVD. Visit the firm online for more free information. Keep up with the latest regional news on Facebook.