Perhaps you’re ready to downsize, relocate, or sell your investment property. Whatever the case, you’re probably here because you want more information on how to go about listing your RI house… And we’ve got you covered!
Step 1: Find a Reputable RI Real Estate Agent
Selling your home is a high-stakes endeavor. You want to get it right the first time because there are no second chances. Technically, you can list and sell your home by yourself. But going at it alone is not recommended. Many things can go wrong, causing you to lose a significant amount of money.
Choosing a knowledgeable real estate agent is the best way to guarantee things run smoothly. Ensure you use an experienced professional who will represent your interests well, such as Liz Kettelle at RE/MAX Real Estate Center.
Step 2: Correctly Price Your Home
Appropriately pricing your home is the next crucial step in listing your RI house. If you list your home significantly higher than market value, you risk it sitting on the market for months. However, listing it too low can cost you thousands of dollars.
Our trusted real estate team can help you find the correct value of your home by performing an in-person comparative market analysis. A CMA compares your house to similar properties in your neighborhood, taking assets, size, upgrades, amenities, unique attributes, overall condition, and more into account. The vital information from this report will help us determine the right asking price for your home.
Step 3: Preparing, Marketing, and Listing Your Home
While we will be with you throughout each step, there are still a few things you will need to do when listing your RI house.
First, we recommend decluttering and cleaning your home. You may need to relocate some of your personal belongings so buyers can better tour your home. You will also need to deep clean your home (or hire a professional to do so).
Next, do minor repairs and complete small upgrades, if possible. New buyers love fresh paint, updated kitchen hardware, and new bathroom faucets.
Lastly, you will need to stage your home. Rhode Island has over 200 days of sunlight annually, so use it to your advantage by letting natural light flow throughout your home. Ensure your home décor and furniture are attractive to buyers also.
After your home is prepped and ready, our team will have professional photos taken of the property. Then, we will post your real estate listing on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), using decades of marketing experience to attract buyers to your property.
Step 4: Dealing with Negotiations
When buyers submit offers, we will thoroughly discuss your options with you. Typically, sellers make at least one counteroffer. If the prospective buyer makes a second offer, you will decide if you are happy with the number.
We will begin creating a real estate purchase contract outlining the sale details if you accept. Once the document is drafted, the buyer usually deposits money into an escrow account, which is released after the sale is finalized.
Step 5: Appraisals, Inspections, and Paperwork
Next, your home will go through the appraisal process. An appraiser will come to your home, usually on behalf of the buyer’s lender, to evaluate the home’s market value.
Your house will also undergo an inspection, which is a detailed property investigation. The inspection aims to ensure that the home is in good working order and free from any major defects.
Due to Rhode Island law, sellers must disclose problems with the home. You are responsible for reporting known issues, so honesty is the best policy. We will help you draft your Sales Disclosure Form. Rhode Island also requires a Flood Zone Statement and Lead-Based Paint Disclosure, so we can also ensure that these have been completed.
During this time, our skilled team will continue to walk you through all additional paperwork and requirements, smoothly getting you to closing day.
Step 6: The Closing Table
The last step of selling your RI home is closing day. We will tell you what you should bring and how to prepare for closing. Home closings are typically held at the attorney or title company’s office. On this day, you and the buyer will sign all necessary paperwork. Once all requirements have been satisfied, you will give the new owner the keys to their home.
Congratulations – you’ve successfully listed and sold your RI house!
Conclusion
Listing your RI house doesn’t have to be overwhelming and stressful. We can walk you through the whole process, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck when selling your home! Contact us today with any questions or to get the listing process started – we are happy to help.
For additional real estate information, tips, and fun facts, please take a few moments to check out some of our helpful resources here!