No. 1: Choose a Listing Agent

A listing agent represents you and has a fiduciary responsibility to look out for your best interests. Interview agents and meet with at least two to three of them as you make a decision. Ask your friends and family for recommendations. Try to hire experience. Ask questions about your listing agreement, including the length of time the home will be listed. Don’t choose a listing agent because he suggests the highest sales price. Sometimes agent will try to “buy” your listing with this approach.

 

No. 2: Find Out How Much Your Home Is Worth

A seller's greatest mistake is often overpricing her home. Keep your price in line with sold homes that have been identified in a comparative market analysis report. Consider whether your market is hot, cold, or neutral and price according to the market temperature. Over-priced homes usually sell for less than they could have due to an extended time on the market.

 

No.3: Sign The Listing Contract

Fill out the required forms. In addition to the actual listing agreement, Kentucky requires a Consumer Guide to Agency Relationships, a Seller’s Disclosure of Property Condition (if you're aware of any other material facts, disclose them) and a Lead Base Paint Disclosure if your home was built prior to 1978. Your agent should also ask you for Home Owner’s Association information and a copy of the deed or probate documents to establish true ownership and authorization on who has to sign the paperwork.

 

No. 3: Get Your Home Ready for Sale

Prepare your home for sale by cleaning and decluttering it and improving curb appeal. Make necessary repairs. Buyers will often deduct more for repairs than they might cost you to do.

You  might want to consider hiring a professional stager to stage your home for showings or ask your real estate agent for help with this. You can often use your own furniture.

Remember, you only get one chance—and sometimes only 3 seconds or so—to make a great first impression so make it count.

 

No. 4: Market Your Home

You or your agent should identify the sizzling selling points of your home and choose the best advertising words to sell it. Approve your agent's marketing. Tweak marketing to increase traffic and showings. Confirm that your listing is posted online. You—or your agent—should saturate the internet with photographs and descriptions of your property. (If you post your listing on your social media pages please remember to mention your agents name and company - otherwise they are in violation of Kentucky Real Estate Law.)

 

No. 5: Show Your Home

Plain and simple: You'll get more showings if you let agents use a lockbox to show your home rather than force them to attend all appointments. Be sure to secure your valuables, prescription medications and firearms.

Prepare for an open house but use this approach sparingly. Ask for buyer feedback so you can adjust your price, condition, or marketing campaigns accordingly.

 

No. 6: Receive Purchase Offers and Negotiate

Be prepared to receive multiple offers if your home is priced right. Don’t just consider the price. Your agent will advise you on the terms most favorable to you. Don't ignore any even if you receive an insultingly lowball offer. Negotiate by making a counteroffer.

Consider making a counteroffer that's contingent on you buying a home if market conditions warrant it. And don't be afraid to make a full-price counteroffer if your price is competitive and it's warranted.

 

No. 7: Cooperate With the Home Inspection

Now get ready for the home inspector. Ask your agent to provide you with a home inspection checklist so you'll know in advance what the inspector will want to see. Prepare the attic and basement for inspection, too. Move stuff away from the walls in the garage.

 

No.8: Requested Repairs

The buyer will most certainly ask for repairs. Your agent can can advise you on what is “reasonable” and can give you a list of professionals to make the required repairs. You don't ordinarily have to accept a buyer's request to make repairs, but he can cancel the contract if you don't. A buyer might accept a closing cost credit instead if you choose not to make repairs. You're entitled to a copy of the home inspection report if the buyer requests repairs.  Be prepared to furnish receipts to show the work has been done and paid for prior to closing.

 

No. 9:  Appraisal Appointment

Most often the appraisal is scheduled right after the inspections and negotiation for repairs are complete. Clean the house the day before the appraiser arrives.

 If you receive a low appraisal, ask your agent about alternatives. You're typically not entitled to receive a copy of the appraisal because you didn't pay for it unless the buyer decides to cancel or renegotiate the contract.

 

No. 10: Order Title

The buyer’s mortgage company will order title from a closing company of the buyer’s choice. You will be asked to supply your Social Security number and information on the mortage(s) you currently have on the home.

 

No.:11 Just A Few Last Steps

Once the buyer’s mortgage is fully approved the closing can be scheduled. Both sides must agree on a date within the timeframe outlined in the contract. Arrange for movers or reserve a truck if you’re doing the heavy lifting.  Be sure to call the utility companies and place a disconnect order. The buyer will schedule a final walk through to verify the repairs are complete and the home is in good condition.

 

No. 12: Closing Title and Escrow Documents

Be sure to bring a valid photo ID. You will sign over the deed and several other documents.

Depending on the buyer's possession rights, you might be required to move on the day the home closes or even in advance. This will have been specified in the contract.