A Seller’s Relationship with the Listing Agent
Stage 1: Initial Consultation and Planning
- Determine seller’s needs and priorities,
- Confirm the decision to sell with all parties on title,
- Review agency choices and select appropriate working relationships,
- Discuss a marketing plan and establish a pricing strategy,
- Discuss recommendations for home improvements, repairs and staging.
- Create marketing materials such as photography, video and virtual tour.
Stage 2: Devise and Execute Marketing Plan
- Seller completes home improvements and repairs,
- Agent brings home to market by going “live” on MLS,
- Proceed with scheduled marketing activities,
- Show the property to brokers and prospective buyers,
- Communicate with the seller on a regular basis,
- Monitor and evaluate the results of marketing activities,
- Revise marketing plan and pricing strategy, as necessary.
Stage 3: Review and Negotiate an Agreement with Buyer
- Agent presents offers,
- Discuss and clarify proposed terms and conditions,
- Negotiate offer, including possible counter offers,
- Reach a final agreement.
Stage 4: Complete the Settlement Process
- Open Escrow and receive buyer’s initial deposit,
- Receive escrow instructions and sign documents,
- Title search and receive preliminary title report,
- Review inspections and disclosures,
- Receive request for repairs from buyer and complete agreed upon repairs,
- Removal of remaining contingencies,
- Final inspection and walk-through by buyer and seller,
- Loan funds, or remaining balance to close is deposited into escrow by buyer,
- Record deed of title,
- Seller moves out and buyer moves in.
Stage 5: After-Sale Services
- Possibly help you to find your next home,
- Assist with you with relocation needs,
- Provide resources for after-sale homeowner needs.
