Real estate guide: 5 Things to do before selling your house

Before you even hit the market, there are some important things to do before selling your house. Real estate transactions are complicated and can even take months when everything goes perfectly - why not save time by preparing as much as you can in advance?

Here are some of the things to remember to do before selling:

Anticipate seller closing costs

The home seller generally pays the agent's commission, which is usually between 4% and 6% of the total sale price. Other common costs paid by the seller include title insurance, property taxes, escrow, closing fees and any fees for legal representation.

Hire a home inspector

While it's not mandatory to get a home inspection before the selling process begins, it can help you save money and time on any potential issues. A licensed home inspector will provide you a detailed report of any structural or mechanical problems with the home, so you're fully prepared to sell faster and without unpleasant surprises.

Freshen up landscaping

Statistically, landscaping can offer you the highest possible rate of return when it comes to selling your home. Increasing your home's curb appeal is essential to preparing for a home sale, so take some time to deep clean and beautify outdoor spaces. 

Remove weeds, debris and any dying plants that might detract from your home's aesthetic appeal. You can also add colorful flowers in containers to give a drab facade an easy fix.

Find a great real estate agent

Real estate agents are trained to help with every aspect of the home selling process. While it's possible to sell your home without an agent, you miss out on valuable knowledge and assistance in interfacing with potential buyers. An agent will help you market your home listing to attract buyers and also assist with negotiating sales price.

Gather necessary paperwork to close

You’ll need a stack of documentation at closing, so the earlier you can prepare your paperwork and get organized, the better. Some of these documents include the title, deed, bill of sale and closing statement. Your real estate agent can help you gather the necessary paperwork and information, so you have an easy time at the closing table.

Are you ready to sell your home? While the process can seem daunting, these tips will help you start in the right direction.