Selling a home might seem overwhelming, but with the right strategy, it becomes a manageable and even rewarding process. If you’re asking yourself, “How do I sell my house?”—you’re in the right place. This guide breaks everything down into three practical stages so you know exactly what to expect and how to move forward with confidence.
If you’re ready to move on from your current home, here’s a full breakdown to help you maximize your profit and reduce unnecessary stress.
Before you list your property, it’s crucial to ensure your home is in top shape. While every house is different, the goal is always the same: present a clean, move-in-ready space that appeals to as many buyers as possible.
Most buyers are looking for homes that are well-maintained and issue-free. Once your home is under contract, buyers will likely order an inspection, and any overlooked problems could jeopardize the sale.
Start by fixing anything you know needs attention—leaky faucets, cracked tiles, squeaky doors, or broken windows. Consider getting a pre-listing inspection to uncover issues you may not be aware of. This proactive step can help prevent surprises later.
A Realtor can help you review the inspection results and prioritize repairs that will most impact your home’s marketability. The fewer problems a buyer sees, the more confident they’ll feel in making a strong offer.
Once repairs are taken care of, consider whether upgrades could increase your home’s appeal. Compare your property to others in your neighborhood. If similar homes feature updated kitchens, modern flooring, or energy-efficient appliances, it might be worth making improvements before listing.
Your Realtor can guide you on which upgrades are worth the investment. If extensive updates aren’t in your budget, adjusting your asking price accordingly may attract buyers who are willing to make updates themselves.
Even something as simple as new paint, updated light fixtures, or refreshed landscaping can make a big difference in how your home is perceived.
With repairs done and any updates completed, the final step is to make your home feel fresh and welcoming. Deep clean every room, touch up paint where needed, and replace worn flooring if necessary.
Remove clutter and excess furniture to make rooms feel more spacious. Store away personal items like family photos and highly specific décor. Buyers should be able to imagine their own belongings in the space.
Curb appeal also matters—trim hedges, lay fresh mulch, and keep your lawn tidy. A neat exterior gives buyers the impression that the home has been well cared for, inside and out.
If needed, your Realtor may recommend working with a professional home stager, especially if your property is in a competitive market or higher price range.
Once your home is market-ready, the next phase involves strategy and outreach. You’ll shift from preparing your home to marketing it effectively and managing buyer interest.
Finding a capable Realtor is one of the most important steps in the selling process. Take your time and choose someone with a proven track record, great reviews, and local expertise—not just someone you know personally. The right agent can make a significant difference in how quickly and profitably your home sells. A strong negotiator and savvy marketer will help you avoid common pitfalls and keep the process moving smoothly.
Here are some questions to ask when interviewing agents:
Pricing your home correctly from the beginning is key. Your Realtor should provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) based on recent sales in your area, local trends, and current competition.
An overpriced home can sit on the market for too long, ultimately leading to price reductions and less buyer interest. A competitively priced home, on the other hand, often attracts more attention and stronger offers early on.
Buyers tend to be most active when a home first hits the market, so make that first impression count.
Once your home is listed, make sure it stays clean and inviting at all times. Buyers may schedule showings with short notice, and an unkempt house can leave a poor impression.
Keep blinds open to let in natural light, turn on lamps to brighten darker spaces, and maintain a fresh scent throughout the home. The more welcoming and well-maintained your space feels, the more likely it is to spark buyer interest.
With your home listed and showings underway, your next goal is to secure a solid offer and guide the sale to a successful close.
Once offers start coming in, resist the urge to jump at the first one. Beyond the purchase price, pay attention to:
Your Realtor will help you evaluate the full strength of each offer and negotiate terms that work in your favor. The more financially solid the buyer, the smoother the process will likely be.
After you accept an offer, your home enters escrow. On average, this period lasts 30–60 days, during which inspections, appraisals, and paperwork are completed.
Stay in touch with your Realtor, the buyer’s agent, and the title or escrow company. Don’t assume everything is moving along unless you’ve confirmed it. Regular communication helps prevent last-minute issues.
Start planning your move early so you’re ready to vacate on time. Decide whether you’ll hire movers or handle the relocation yourself, and coordinate timing with the closing date.
When all contingencies have been cleared and the buyer’s lender issues a “clear-to-close,” you’re ready to sign the final paperwork.
Closings are typically handled by a title company or real estate attorney, depending on your state. Bring a valid ID, keys, garage remotes, and any additional documents or receipts that belong with the home.
Once the buyer signs and the lender wires the funds, you’ll receive your sale proceeds—either via check or direct deposit. Congratulations, the sale is complete!
Costs of Selling
Most expenses are deducted from your sale proceeds, including Realtor commissions (usually 4.5–6%) and title or legal fees. You typically don’t pay anything out-of-pocket in advance.
Capital Gains
If the home was your primary residence for at least two of the past five years, you may qualify for a tax exemption—up to $250,000 for individuals or $500,000 for married couples filing jointly.
Choosing the Right Agent
Interview multiple Realtors to find someone whose approach aligns with your goals and communication preferences. The right agent is key to a smooth and profitable transaction.
Selling Without an Agent
While some sellers attempt to sell on their own, most FSBO transactions fall short. A professional agent brings experience, market knowledge, and negotiation skills that often result in faster, more successful sales.
Timing Matters
Winter months—especially December and January—can be slower for real estate activity. Your local market and climate may affect the best time to list. Consult with your Realtor to time your sale for maximum exposure.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Working with a proactive, experienced agent helps you anticipate and avoid common issues. Addressing repairs early, pricing correctly, and preparing your home thoroughly will set you up for success.
