Start with the market and your goals
Discuss your desired timing, any move that depends on the sale, and the condition of the property. Review comparable sales and current competition together. Ask which differences matter when comparing another home with yours.
- Share previous inspection reports, repairs, permits, and relevant property records.
- Discuss any constraints on showings, access, or moving dates.
Separate necessary work from optional improvements
Create a short list of repairs, cleaning, presentation, and photography needs. Consider the likely buyer response, project timing, and cost before choosing work. A renovation is not a guarantee of a higher net return.
- Get written scope and pricing from the providers doing the work.
- Confirm what is included in the listing plan and which costs you pay separately.
Compare offers by more than the headline price
Review financing, contingencies, credits, deposits, and timing alongside the price. Ask for an estimated net sheet that includes loan payoffs and anticipated transaction costs, and update it when terms change.
- Keep copies of agreed terms and track the deadlines with your transaction team.
- Use feedback from showings to guide decisions about presentation and pricing.