Alana Mey of Compass Real Estate, formerly from BNP Realtors here! If you’ve found this page you must be mulling over the idea of listing your home. I’ve worked with first-time home sellers, multi-million dollar listings and everywhere inbetween, so I’ve got you covered no matter what you’re thinking of selling. That said, getting ready to sell your home can be daunting and stressful and it’s hard to know what you don’t know – So I’ve put together this list to get you started no matter what you’re selling.

When preparing to list your home, it's essential to ask your real estate agent the right questions to ensure a smooth and successful selling process.

Here are some important questions for homeowners to ask their real estate agent:

1. What is your experience and track record in selling homes in my area? Request information about the agent's past sales in your neighborhood to assess their familiarity with the local market.
   

2. How will you determine the listing price for my home? Ask about the agent's approach to pricing and what factors they consider, such as recent comparable sales, market trends, and the unique features of your property.
   

3. Can you provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) for my home? Request a CMA, which includes an assessment of recent comparable sales, active listings, and expired listings in your neighborhood. This analysis can help you understand the current market value of your home.
   

4. What marketing strategies will you employ to promote my home? Inquire about the agent's marketing plan, including online listings, professional photography, virtual tours, open houses, and any specific techniques they utilize to attract potential buyers.
   

5. How will you handle negotiations and offers on my behalf? Discuss the agent's negotiation strategy and their approach to securing the best possible terms and price for your home. Ask about their experience in handling multiple offers, if applicable.
   

6. What improvements or repairs should I consider before listing my home? Seek advice on any necessary or recommended updates or repairs that can enhance the appeal and value of your property. Ask about cost-effective improvements that can yield a high return on investment.
   

7. How will you communicate with me throughout the selling process? Establish clear expectations regarding communication frequency and preferred methods of contact. Inquire about the agent's availability and how they keep sellers informed about market updates, showings, and feedback from potential buyers.
   

8. What is the average time it takes for homes in my area to sell? Gain insights into the local market's typical timeframe for selling homes. This information can help you set realistic expectations and plan accordingly.
   

9. Are there any specific staging or presentation tips for my home? Ask for guidance on presenting your home in its best light, including staging suggestions and tips for enhancing curb appeal.
   

10. What are the costs associated with selling my home? Inquire about the estimated closing costs, real estate agent commissions, and any other expenses you should anticipate as a seller.
    

11. Can you provide references from past clients? Request references to speak with previous clients about their experiences working with the agent. This can provide valuable insights into their professionalism, communication, and effectiveness.
    

12. What is your recommended timeline for listing my home? Discuss the ideal timing for listing your home based on market conditions, local trends, and your specific circumstances.

If you’d like to learn more about what I offer to homeowners looking to sell just check out my selling page on my website for all the details or give me a no-commitment call and we can schedule a time to chat or for me to visit your home for the most accurate discussion of your property.

Here are some essential questions homeowners should ask themselves before listing their home.

Homeowners should ask themselves several important questions to assess their readiness, goals, and expectations. Here are some essential questions to consider:

1. Why do I want to sell my home? Understanding your motivations for selling will help you set realistic expectations and guide your decisions throughout the process.
   

2. Is now the right time to sell? Consider factors such as the local real estate market conditions, your personal circumstances, and any upcoming changes in your life that may affect your ability to sell or move.
   

3. What is my desired timeline for selling? Determine whether you have a specific deadline or preferred timeframe for completing the sale. This will help you plan and prioritize tasks related to the selling process.
   

4. What is my target selling price? Evaluate your financial goals and expectations for the sale. Research the local market to gain an understanding of recent sales and price trends to help set a realistic selling price.
   

5. Have I consulted with a real estate agent or professional? Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable real estate agent or professional can provide valuable insights and expertise to help you navigate the selling process effectively. I would be honored to be considered amongst those you connect with when considering selling your home. There are many perks to listing your home with me and costs I cover as a part of working with you, such has photography, videography, custom marketing materials and more. You can learn more about how I help people sell their homes by checking out the Selling page or just give me a call at 360-421-0733 to chat.
   

6. What is the condition of my home? Assess the current condition of your home, both aesthetically and functionally. Consider any necessary repairs or updates that could enhance its appeal to potential buyers.
   

7. Have I considered the potential costs involved in selling? Understand the various expenses associated with selling a home, such as real estate agent commissions, closing costs, staging, and potential repairs. Evaluate your financial readiness to cover these costs.
   

8. Do I have a plan for finding my next home? Consider your future housing needs and have a plan in place for finding a new home, whether it involves renting, purchasing another property, or exploring temporary accommodations.
   

9. Am I prepared for the emotional aspects of selling? Selling a home can be an emotional process, as it often involves leaving behind memories and familiar surroundings. Reflect on your emotional readiness and be prepared for potential ups and downs during the selling journey.
   

10.  Am I willing to prepare my home for showings and open houses? Consider the time and effort required to prepare your home for showings, including decluttering, staging, and maintaining its appearance for potential buyers.
    

11.  How will selling my home affect my financial situation? Evaluate the impact of selling your home on your overall financial picture, including any potential tax implications, mortgage considerations, and plans for the proceeds from the sale.
    

12.  Have I researched the local real estate market and recent sales in my area? Familiarize yourself with the local market conditions, recent comparable sales, and trends in your area. This information will help you make informed decisions and set appropriate expectations.

By asking these questions, you can gain a better understanding of your real estate agent's expertise, approach, and strategies and your own preparedness for this journey. This will empower you to make informed decisions, set realistic expectations, and navigate the selling process with confidence.

More questions then answers? Just give me a call for a no-commitment consultation. I work all around Bellingham and Whatcom County and as an agent with BNP Realtors and have access to a personal transaction coordinator who will work hand-in-hand and inform you of all upcoming deadlines to help keep your home’s sale moving along seamlessly.