Seller Roadmap

1. Decision to Sell

Are you selling in order to move to a new neighborhood, school district, or improved access to amenities such as lifestyle and/or occupational opportunities? Downsizing or in need of more room? Selling investment properties?

As experienced real estate professionals, we work with you to understand your reasons for selling, when you want to sell, the current market conditions, and the financial impact. At the same time, we will be coordinating your next move.

2. Preparation

Starting with our initial consultation, transparency about the listing process and communication of expectations will be paramount to our business relationship. This guarantees shared confidence in the approach to the property pricing, home preparation, and marketing strategies used in a successful sale.

We will enter into this process with the intent to sell your home at a price commensurate with current market dynamics and within your time frame. We will discuss the following as part of this process:

• Timeframe for sale
• Property walk through
• Expectations and bottom line
• Listing paperwork and disclosures
• Your home’s presentation and the costs involved in making any recommended enhancements
• Repairs

3. Determining Value

A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is essential to determine the value of residential property. Location and characteristics of the property are key elements in determining value.

The CMA takes into account the amount received from recent sales of comparable properties as well as the quantity and quality of comparable properties currently on the market. The desired end result is to find the price that attracts a buyer in a reasonable timeframe.

If you’re considering selling your home in the District, contact us for a Home Assessment Analysis or call Matt directly at 202.744.5799. Together we’ll review the current selling prices of similar homes and determine how we can maximize the value of your home.

4. Marketing

We I tailor your home’s marketing plan to focus on the most appropriate audience. You will receive a customized marketing plan and schedule of events leading up to your home being listed. The following are a few of the strategies, tools, and marketing channels weuse:

• Digital photography
• Distinctive property flyers and relevant information
• Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
• Direct mail
• Print media
• Internet
• Yard sign (where permitted)
• Open houses/brokers opens
• Agent networking

Throughout the process, you will be fully informed of buyer and agent foot traffic and interest in your home throughout the process.

5. Offer Evaluation

When evaluating an offer, having an experienced negotiator on your side can save you time and money.

6. Contingencies

Contingencies give the purchaser the right to conduct inspections, obtain financing and appraisal, ensure a clear title, and learn more about your property. Each contingency has a specific timeframe. The buyer may use information to request a renegotiation of the terms of the contract. This is when an objective, experienced listing agent can really make a difference by helping you make an informed decision about how to respond.

7. Purchasing Your Next Home/Relocation

Homeownership has many personal and financial benefits. While serving as your listing agent, we also provide you with essential home buying counsel and manage the process leading to a successful settlement. If you are relocating, ask us about relocation services and local contacts that may assist you with your move. We maintain agent relationships in many major metropolitan areas and can assist in this endeavor.

8. Arriving at Settlement

Contingencies are fulfilled, the title is clear, you’re packed, and have scheduled the movers. You’re almost there! As you begin to plan your move, we can provide recommendations and referrals. Remember to keep your homeowners insurance current until the day after settlement and change your utilities out of your name only after the agreed closing date. See Moving Checklist.

Congratulations!