Step 1: Prepare Your Home for Sale

Clean and Declutter, Repairs and Maintenance, Boost Curb Appeal, Stage Strategically

Deep clean every room. Depersonalize by removing family photos or strong decor choices. Declutter countertops, closets, and garage. Fix leaky faucets, broken fixtures, cracked tiles, or chipped paint. Consider a pre-inspection to catch surprises. Mow the lawn, mulch the flower beds, paint the front door. Make the first impression count! Rearrange furniture to maximize space and light. Use neutral tones and keep decor minimal.

Step 2: Price It Right

Do a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), Use Online Tools (But Be Cautious), Consider Getting an Appraisal

Look at recently sold homes in your area with similar size, condition, and features. Pay close attention to price per square foot and days on market. Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com can provide estimates. These tools vary and are not always accurate. A licensed appraiser gives an objective value based on market data—great for pricing confidence.

Step 3: Market Your Home

Photography & Video, Write a Winning Listing Description, List on Key Platforms, Use Flyers & Open Houses

Use professional photos or a drone service for exterior shots. High-quality visuals = more showings. Highlight features (updated kitchen, pool, finished basement). Neighborhood perks (schools, parks, walkability). Emotional appeal (“Perfect for entertaining…”) List your property on the MLS (via flat fee MLS service). Market your property on Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com. Facebook Marketplace & FSBO Facebook groups. Use yard signs with a call-to-action and contact info. Create printed flyers with photos, key features, and pricing. Host weekend open houses, promote them online, and prepare sign-in sheets.

Step 5: Handle Offers & Negotiations

Understand the Components of an Offer, Evaluate Offers Logically, Counteroffers, Consider a Real Estate Attorney

You can accept, reject, or counter an offer. All changes must be in writing and signed. Consider a real estate attorney especially useful when finalizing legal terms.

Step 6: Disclosures & Legal Compliance

Required Disclosures (Varies by State), Fair Housing Laws

Lead-based paint (for homes built before 1978) is a required disclosure, Property condition/disclosure statements, Material defects known to the seller, you cannot discriminate based on race, religion, gender, family status, etc. All these forms can be downloaded and printed from the TREC website. The forms found on the Texas Real Estate Commission website (TREC) are available for public use. My suggestion would be to download the common forms and learn the ins and outs, especially the 1-4 family sales contract.

Step 7: Inspection & Appraisal

Home Inspection & Appraisal

The home inspection is typically done by the buyer. Be prepared for requests for repairs or price reductions. The appraisal is required if the buyer is financing. Ensure access for the appraiser and provide a clean home.

Step 8: Paperwork & Closing

Hire a Title Company or Real Estate Attorney, Final Walkthrough, Closing Day!

A title company or an attorney will handle: Title search, Escrow, Closing documents

The final walk through is usually 24–48 hours before closing. Home must be in agreed-upon condition.

Upon closing, you will Sign final documents, Handover keys and garage openers. and get paid! Funds are typically wired or provided as a cashier’s check. Now it’s time to celebrate because selling a house, even if everything runs smoothly, IS hard work!