×

Go Back

Advice Topics

Top Contributors (View All)

Find a Top Real Estate Agent Near You

Search Now

What is the first thing to do when selling a house?

We're thinking of selling our first house. What is the first thing we need to do? Do we need to prep the house before talking to a real estate agent?
Asked By Parker Tooley | San Diego, CA | 692 views | Selling | Created 3 years ago
Answer(6)
Sort By:
profile img
Semi-Pro
60 Answers
Steven Hunt

Real Broker NY LLC

(40)

You do not need to prep it before speaking with a realtor. A realtor would do a market analysis, view your home and then give you tips on what needs to be done in order to maximize the value of your home. Here is a video I made, similar to what your asking https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CG7VrNIy1sU
profile img
Rising Star
13 Answers
Stephanie Biello

Biello & Black Group

The first thing to do when selling a house is to contact a real estate agent who can provide guidance and advice about the most appropriate steps for you on your journey. The agent will be able to advise whether the house needs any preparation prior to listing it for sale, such as staging, decluttering or any necessary repairs. They will also provide an accurate assessment of the current market value of your home.

Are you ready to find a top agent near you?

Browse profiles of the highest ranked agents in your area and find one that meets your specific needs.

Search
profile img
Novice
3 Answers
Cheryl Maddaluna

Keller Wiliams Towne Sq

(36)

I would suggest at the very least decluttering as much as possible. Then you should have an agent come in an advise you on how you can stage the remaining furnishing. You can also discuss if rooms should be painted or left as is.
profile img
Novice
3 Answers
Jeanne Hochhalter

@Properties

(4)

The best first steps you can take are:
Clean your home, remove clutter, I tell clients it is a good time to start packing up extras and put away valuables.
Choose an agent to come over, go through your home and form a relationship. The agent will need a list of upgrades, anything new and also an idea of what attracted you to the property. What things do you love about your home?
Listen to your agent about pricing and items that need to be done. Most sellers have a good idea of what your value might be but you are probably off a bit, it is the agent that will give you the numbers you will need to work with. The market is shifting, what sold in hours a year ago may take a month, listening to your agent is the best education you can get on the market.
If you have pets, start thinking about what arrangements you can make for them during showings. Start getting your home in picture perfect condition for professional photographs while working with your agent on next steps to get your property on the open market.
profile img
Novice
3 Answers
Julie Yuan

eXp Realty of California Inc.

(26)

Talk to an agent first!!! An agent will be able to tell you objectively the condition of your home compared to other properties on the market, and make recommendations accordingly. Do NOT try to improve the property before this. Most sellers either over improve the property, or spend money on things that buyers today do not care about. To get the highest ROI, talk to an expert first.
profile img
Novice
2 Answers
Rochelle Chacon

Coldwell Banker Realty

(107)

Hello Parker,
I suggest that you speak to a Realtor prior to making any repairs. Realtors know what buyers are looking for and they can save you from making changes that may not be appreciated. A Realtor can give you the best advice on how to prepare your home for sale and safe you time and effort.

Related Questions

Search for Agents by Top U.S Cities
Search for Agents by States
Search for Company by States