SELLERS GUIDE

Seller's Guide

Putting your home on the market can be a stressful process. Fortunately, with the help of an experienced agent and this easy to follow guide, you can smoothly complete the process. Following these steps will help you prepare so you can get organized and sell your home for the best price possible.

Step 1

Your selling journey begins with an initial consultation with our team. This is an important first step, as it sets the foundation for your entire selling process. During this meeting, we will listen to your goals for selling, whether you’re looking for a quick sale or aiming for maximum profit. We will also explain current market conditions, offering insights into how homes in your area have been performing. This is the time to ask questions, discuss timelines, and talk about what you can do to prepare your home for sale. We will likely also talk about legal and administrative steps, such as paperwork, contracts, and disclosure requirements specific to Ontario. This meeting will help you form a clear strategy moving forward.

Step 2

Home Evaluation & Pricing Strategy

Determining the right price for your home is critical. Overpricing your home can scare off potential buyers, while underpricing could mean leaving money on the table. To find the sweet spot, we will conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This involves analyzing the sale price of recently sold homes in your area that are similar in size, condition, and features. The analysis helps us recommend a price range that aligns with market trends while considering unique aspects of your property. We will also talk about your pricing strategy—whether to price slightly higher to leave room for negotiation or list competitively to attract more buyers quickly. It's important to be realistic about your expectations and understand that market conditions, like the economy or interest rates, can affect pricing.

Step 3

Start Preperations

Before listing your home, you’ll need to invest some time in preparing it to appeal to potential buyers. Start by decluttering rooms and spaces to give the impression of a larger, more open home. Remove personal items like family photos, which can distract buyers and prevent them from imagining the home as their own. If any minor repairs are needed (such as fixing leaky faucets, patching drywall, or replacing broken light fixtures), it’s best to tackle them before listing. A fresh coat of paint in neutral tones can also help create a clean, modern look. Staging can take your home to the next level, especially in competitive markets. Professional stagers can arrange furniture and décor in a way that highlights your home’s best features. Additionally, deep cleaning is essential. Sparkling floors, windows, and bathrooms can significantly impact the way potential buyers perceive your home.

Step 4

Marketing Your Property

Next, we will create a customized marketing plan to attract qualified buyers. In today’s digital age, the majority of home buyers start their search online, so professional photography is a must. High-quality images and virtual tours can help your home stand out on MLS® and other listing sites like Realtor.ca, where your home will be featured. In addition to online listings, we will promote your home through social media channels and targeted digital advertising to reach a broader audience. Depending on your market, we may also run ads in local publications or coordinate email campaigns to prospective buyers. Open houses, whether virtual or in-person, are another effective way to showcase your home and generate interest. The more exposure your home gets, the better your chances of selling it quickly and at a good price.

initial realtor consultation

Step 5

showings

Showings are an important part of the selling process, giving potential buyers a chance to see your home in person. We will schedule and manage these showings, coordinating with you to make sure everything runs smoothly. It’s important to keep your home in “show-ready” condition at all times, as you may get short notice for a viewing. Before each showing, ensure the home is clean, well-lit, and inviting. Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light, and remove any clutter or personal items. Some sellers find it helpful to temporarily relocate pets during showings, as not all buyers are pet-friendly. We will follow up with prospective buyers and their agents for feedback after each showing, giving you insights into what buyers like and areas that might need improvement.

Step 6

Offers and Negotiation

Receiving offers is exciting, but the negotiation process can be complex. When an offer comes in, your realtor will help you evaluate it, looking beyond the offer price. Offers often come with conditions, such as the buyer needing financing approval or a satisfactory home inspection. You’ll want to consider these terms carefully, as some conditions can delay the sale or cause complications later on. If you receive multiple offers, your realtor may advise you on whether to counteroffer, accept, or wait for a better offer. They will negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible price and terms. If a bidding war occurs, your realtor will guide you through that as well, making sure you remain in control and get the best possible deal.

Step 7

closing the deal

Once you've accepted an offer, the closing process begins. This is when final paperwork is completed, and legalities are handled to transfer ownership. A lawyer is required to manage the legal aspects of the sale, such as conducting a title search to ensure there are no issues with the property’s title and preparing the documents needed for the transfer. During the closing period, the buyer may perform a final inspection or appraisal, and any outstanding conditions from the offer (like financing approval) will need to be cleared. Your lawyer will also arrange for the funds to be transferred, including paying off any existing mortgage and closing costs such as realtor fees. On closing day, you’ll hand over the keys, and the buyer takes ownership of the property. Your realtor will make sure the entire process is handled smoothly and without delays.

Step 8

Moving Day

Congratulations—you’ve sold your home! Now it's time to focus on moving out. Ensure you’ve scheduled the movers, packed your belongings, and arranged for your utilities to be transferred or canceled. It's also important to update your mailing address for any ongoing bills or services. A final deep clean is a considerate gesture for the new owners, leaving the home in good condition for its next chapter. Double-check that all your keys, garage openers, and appliance manuals are left behind, as these will be useful for the buyer. Moving day can be emotional, but with good preparation, it can be stress-free and the start of a new adventure.

Additional Resources for Ontario Sellers:

Capital Gains Tax: If the home you're selling is not your primary residence, you may need to pay capital gains tax on any profit from the sale. Speak with an accountant to understand how this may affect your financial situation.
Legal and Realtor Fees: Sellers typically pay the commission for both the buyer’s and seller’s agents. You’ll also need to budget for legal fees to cover the costs of your lawyer’s services.

Congratulations!

Selling your home is a major milestone, but with the right realtor by your side, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. From pricing and marketing to negotiating offers and closing the deal, having a clear plan and professional support will help you achieve the best results. Whether you’re moving to a new home or simply capitalizing on the current market, this guide will help you every step of the way.

If you’re ready to start the process, reach out to us today for expert advice and support!