Guide
Selling a Home
What to expect, what matters, and where sellers can make better decisions.
Preparing Your Home
First impressions matter, but so do the things buyers notice during a showing. Declutter, deep clean, and address the small repairs you’ve been putting off. The goal isn’t to make your home look like a model home. It’s to help buyers see themselves living there.
What Is Worth Fixing
Not every improvement pays for itself. Fresh paint, fixed hardware, and a clean, well-maintained exterior typically return more than major renovations. Be cautious about large projects right before selling. Talk to your agent about what’s worth doing in your specific market and price range.
Pricing
Pricing is part data, part strategy. A comparative market analysis looks at recent sales, active listings, and market trends to find the right range. Price too high and your home sits. Price too low and you leave money on the table. The right price attracts the right buyers and creates momentum.
Photography & Marketing
Professional photography is one of the highest-return investments you can make. Most buyers start their search online, and your photos determine whether they take the next step. Your agent should also have a plan for where and how your home will be listed, shared, and promoted.
Showings
Showings are an interruption, but they’re also the path to an offer. Be flexible with showing times, keep your home showing-ready, and leave during showings when possible. Buyers need to feel comfortable exploring and imagining themselves in the space.
Evaluating Offers
The highest offer isn’t always the best offer. Terms matter: contingencies, financing type, timeline, and the buyer’s overall strength. An offer with fewer contingencies and solid financing may be worth more than a higher offer that’s risky. Your agent helps you evaluate the full picture.
Inspections
After accepting an offer, the buyer will typically inspect your home. They may request repairs or credits. You can agree, negotiate, or in some cases, decline. Being transparent about known issues upfront reduces surprises and builds trust during this phase.
Appraisal
If the buyer is financing, their lender will appraise your home. If the appraisal comes in below the agreed price, it can create a negotiation point. You may need to reduce the price, the buyer may make up the difference, or the deal may fall through. Knowing this is possible helps you respond calmly.
Closing
Closing involves signing the transfer documents, settling closing costs, and handing over the keys. Seller closing costs typically include title fees, transfer taxes, and any agreed-upon credits or repairs. Review your closing statement before signing day so you know what to expect.
What Sellers Often Underestimate
The time and emotional energy involved. The impact of showing readiness on daily life. The importance of pricing strategy over wishful thinking. And how much the right agent communication reduces stress throughout the process.
How Jane Approaches Selling
Jane starts with understanding your goals, timeline, and what matters most to you. She provides an honest assessment of your home’s market position, handles the marketing and showings, and negotiates on your behalf. The objective is a sale you feel good about, not just a sign in the yard.