Sellers

01—Selecting an Agent

Choosing the right agent is crucial. Top agents prioritize their clients, educate them on market conditions, and help maximize their return. Look for a skilled agent with excellent relationships within the industry, including attorneys and accountants. Experience is valuable, but trust and chemistry are essential—your agent should communicate effectively, spot potential risks early, and work to avoid or minimize them. Strong agents generate repeat business and referrals, reflecting their success.

02—Refining Analysis, Documents, Disclosures & Game Plan

A successful sale starts with complete transparency. Disclose all relevant details about your property, such as easements, zoning, liens, or potential issues like mold or termites. By being upfront, you help avoid surprises and enable your agent to address any concerns from buyers or lenders effectively. During this phase, your agent will refine the market analysis, prepare necessary documents, and ensure all required disclosures are in order. Together, you’ll discuss pricing strategies and develop a well-organized plan to minimize risks and maximize the success of your sale.

03—Staging & Prepping the Home

First impressions matter. Properly staging your home can lead to higher sale prices, quicker sales, and fewer repair requests after inspections. Even in a seller’s market, buyers are discerning. Whether using professional staging or tackling it yourself, start by decluttering, repairing, and cleaning your home. Great photos begin with a clean, well-staged space. Ralston Group offers complimentary evaluations and can arrange staging consultations with vetted professionals to ensure your home stands out.

04—Professional Photography & Videography

High-quality photography is essential to capture the attention of buyers, as most start their home search online. Exceptional photos make a strong first impression and can turn casual interest into in-person showings. Ralston Group partners with experienced photographers and videographers to showcase your home’s best features and create emotional connections with potential buyers.

05—MLS Listing & Syndication

Once your home is staged and professionally photographed, we’ll list it on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) and syndicate it across top real estate platforms. This ensures maximum exposure to qualified buyers.

06—Showings & Open Houses

Showings and open houses offer buyers the opportunity to experience the home in person. Your agent will schedule these events to attract as many potential buyers as possible, ensuring the home is presented in the best possible light. The agent will handle inquiries, feedback, and scheduling to ensure a smooth process.

07—Selecting an Offer

When offers come in, take your time—there’s no need to make an immediate decision. Review the financial terms, contingencies, and deadlines. Make sure the offer aligns with your priorities, such as price, timing, and conditions. Your agent will help you weigh the pros and cons of each offer to ensure you make an informed decision.

08—Closing

Congratulations! Once an offer is accepted, it’s time to finalize the deal. Your agent will guide you through the closing process, working with escrow, title companies, and attorneys (if applicable) to ensure everything is in order. Once everything is signed, it’s time to celebrate the successful sale of your home!

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Moving Checklist: Helpful Tips for a Stress-Free Move

Whether you’re moving in a week or a few months, here are some practical steps to help keep things organized:

1-2 Months Before the Move:
  • Start a File: Create a folder to track vendor quotes, receipts, and dates. This will help you stay organized and monitor progress.
  • Request Estimates & Set a Budget: Contact reputable moving companies for in-home estimates. If you’re moving yourself, get quotes from truck rental companies. Create a budget for your move to avoid surprises.
  • Get Some Help: Reserve your moving company or truck rental early to secure your preferred date. Some moving companies offer packing services too, so consider this option.
  • Gear Up: Order moving boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing materials, and permanent markers. Stock up on labels to stay organized.
  • Sort & Purge: Designate a “staging area” in your home. Separate items into categories: donate, sell, recycle, or throw away. The less you move, the easier the process will be.
  • Begin Packing: Start with non-essential items you won’t need right away. Label boxes by room and content. Consider a numbering system to help track boxes and create an inventory list.
  • Continue Sorting & Purging: Go through items again and reduce further. This is a good time to get rid of anything you’ve missed or no longer need.
  • Build a Survival Kit: Pack a suitcase with essentials you’ll need immediately after the move—clothes, toiletries, medications, and important documents. Keep it easily accessible.
  • Notify Key Contacts: Update your address with banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, healthcare providers, and schools. Notify employers and any subscription services.
  • Change Your Address: Pick up a change-of-address form at the post office or do it online. Be sure to redirect your mail to your new home.
  • Schedule Connects/Disconnects: Contact utilities (gas, electricity, water, internet) to schedule disconnection at your old place and connection at your new home.
  • Cancel Extra Services: Reach out to delivery services (newspapers, Amazon), security services, pest control, lawn care, and cleaning help. Make sure all extra services are canceled or transferred.
  • Do a Final Clean: Clean your current home thoroughly—wipe down counters, clean out the fridge, and perform a final sweep. Leave it in great condition for the next occupants.
  • Book a Sitter for Kids/Pets: Arrange childcare or pet care for moving day. This will ensure you’re focused and stress-free during the transition.
  • Double-Check Details: Confirm your moving company’s arrival time, and go over any final instructions. Make sure you’re ready to go!
  • Take Inventory: Before the movers leave, take an inventory of your items to ensure nothing is missing or damaged during the move.
  • Rest Up: Try to get a good night’s sleep before moving day to ensure you’re energized and ready to go.
  • Set Aside Cash: Have cash on hand for tips, food, or unexpected expenses during the move.
  • Do a Final Walk-Through: Check each room to ensure all belongings are packed and nothing is left behind. Turn off lights, lock doors, and ensure everything is secured.
  • Say Goodbye: Take a moment to say goodbye to your neighbors and your old home. This chapter is closing, and it’s a good time to reflect before starting fresh.
  • Check Utilities and Services: Confirm that all utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) are functioning properly in your new home.
  • Unpack Essentials First: Begin by unpacking your survival kit and the essentials you’ll need for the first night. Focus on key rooms like the kitchen and bedroom to make your new home feel comfortable.
  • Get to Know Your New Home: Familiarize yourself with the layout. Locate important systems like the water shut-off valve and electrical panel.
  • Inspect for Issues: Check for any issues that may need attention, such as leaks, damaged walls, or any system problems. Address these as soon as possible.
  • Update Your Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration: If you’ve moved to a new state, update your driver’s license and vehicle registration with your new address.
  • Meet Your Neighbors: Take the time to introduce yourself to your new neighbors and explore the neighborhood to get acclimated.

By following this checklist, you’ll stay on track and reduce the stress of your move. Let us know if you’d like further tips or assistance as you get ready for the big day!

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