What should I do before I meet with a Realtor?

Okay, so you've decided to put your house on the market, and you're not sure what to do or where to start? Before you meet with your Realtor, here are some ideas:

Preparing for the listing paperwork:

• Have all parties on title available to sign the listing agreement.
• Have your mortgage loan information ready & available.
• Have your home owner's association (HOA) information available (who, what, when & how much).
• Have a key available for the lock box.
• Decide which items will be included with the sale that are not built in (refrig, washer/dryer, etc.), and excluded items that are built in (chandelier, electric sconces).  Better yet, remove/replace these items.
• Have your showing instructions in mind. For instance, would you like an advance phone call? Which number? How advance notice is necessary for showings?  Can we leave a message & okay the agent to show? Alarm?
• Know your email address.

Preparing the house for showings:  (If you've ever been in a model home, that's the effect we're going for here):

• Declutter; remember this mantra, "If it's feeling bare you're nearly there".
• Pack away family photos and small knick-knacks.
• Hide any small appliances and cooking utensils that are on the counter top.
• Remove magnets from the refrigerator.
• Place unnecessary furniture in storage (i.e. larger pieces, mis-matched pieces).
• Hide personal care items in the baths (i.e. deodorant, brushes, shampoo, used towels).
• Deodorize if necessary.
• Remove dark drapery; the more light the better.
• Replace dated light & plumbing fixtures.

Sounds like a pain?  It is. However, it will hurt now or it will hurt later.  Failure to do these items will likely lead to longer time on market and less money for you.  Keep in mind that people are willing to exchange dollars for convenience. The less they have to do, the better; even if they're planning to change everything.