Steps to Selling

Selling a home is a major decision.  Figuring out how to do it can be confusing at times.  Which is why I have created a step by step guide to selling your Tulsa home.

1.  Select the Listing Realtor right for the job

Select a full-time Realtor with an established Brokerage. Ask to see how she markets her listings and make sure you choose a Realtor who is technologically savvy and will provide the maximum exposure for your property sale.

Talk to a handful of professionals, do your own research and listen to your gut instinct. Choose the Tulsa REALTOR® best suited for your needs.

Lori’s advice and counsel as to my property’s worth was right on target. Her preparation of the property and presentation was outstanding. She went well above what was expected and took the worry out of selling. She truly must enjoy her work.
~ Jerry Rainwater, Tulsa Home Seller

Don’t be afraid to ask questions like:

• What would they highlight about your Tulsa home?
• What would they change before it goes on the market (paint, decor, arrangement of furniture, etc)?

Get a detailed marketing plan from your prospective Tulsa real estate agent. In what manner do they plan to market your home? Does their marketing mix include print advertising, television and internet marketing? Ask them to see examples of how they have marketed similar properties.  Ask for references. Gather as much information as possible, and hire the REALTOR® with whom you feel the most confidence.

2.  Can you and your REALTOR® agree on price?

Don’t choose a REALTOR® who will allow you to set the price. Pricing your home correctly from day one will promote a smooth, rather than frustrating, transaction.  The agent you are hiring knows what the current condition is of the Tulsa real estate market and can advise you on the best price.  Both you & the agent you hire have the same goal.  To sell your home fast and for the highest price possible.  Remember, the more you get for your home, the more money the agent will make so they are not going to try and make you give the home away.  But, over pricing a home that will not sell, becomes a liability to your Tulsa real estate agent.

3.  Getting your home ready to be placed on the market – “Move-in Ready” is Key

With higher property inventories, buyers expect homes to shine, and they need to see themselves living in your home. Paint the walls, replace worn carpet, clean your home from top to bottom, and don’t forget the landscaping!  Maximize your chances of people being excited about your property when it hits the market!  Tulsa buyers are going to come in with high expectations. With higher inventories from which to choose, they will not consider a home that they can not imagine living in. If you need assistance with these things, check my preferred vendor list.

4.  Digesting, Accepting & Benefitting from feedback

REALTORS® will be brutally honest with feedback. If two agents complain about the purple wall color that you love, paint it a neutral color. New homes sell every day with white walls and beige carpet. Temporarily consider your home as a commodity.

5.  Negotiating the Contract: offers and counter-offers

Don’t lose your temper if your first offer seems insulting. A patient and skilled REALTOR® can negotiate that low offer where it needs to be.

6.  Repairs – we’re still not through negotiating

Inspection results show harmful mold in your basement of which you were unaware. Everyone has time and money invested in this transacation – let your REALTOR® negotiate a compromise.  Don’t be surprised when the inspection comes back with multiple items on it.  Remember, the inspector is paid to find things wrong and they will find at least one thing on every inspection they do.

7.  Going to the Closing Table: Saying Goodbye

We’ve worked hard and we’ve worked well together. Hopefully this was as smooth a transaction for you as possible and you are happily on your way to your next home!

To start this process in selling your home in Tulsa, feel free to fill out my home evaluation form and I will contact you soon!