Our internet marketing system allows us to make information accessible 24-hours daily, and to respond quickly and directly to each and every potential buyer. From our website, prospective buyers can get information immediately about your property. They can access our site 24 hours a day and view your property listing! Through our Personal Home Search, your listing will be transmitted by email to each prospective buyer in our database, where your home meets their standards. Plus it'll be emailed automatically to future prospective buyers too.
Whenever you list your property with us, I'll enter your property in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) database. Other agents can immediately access your property information. In addition, your property will be included in all the major brokerage sites across Canada.
Below are important steps to keep in mind when you are selling:
1. **Decide to Sell**:
- Assess your current life situation, financial position, and the housing market to determine if it's the right time to sell.
2. **Choose a Realtor**:
- Look for a realtor experienced in the BC market, particularly in your specific region or city.
- Your realtor will provide market insights, advise on pricing, list the property, and represent you throughout the sale.
3. **Home Evaluation**:
- Your realtor will conduct a comparative market analysis to suggest a listing price.
- They'll compare your home to recently sold properties in the area to gauge its value.
4. **Prepare the Home**:
- Address necessary repairs or renovations to improve the property's appeal.
- Declutter and stage the home for showings. Consider professional cleaning services for a pristine appearance.
5. **Listing the Property**:
- Your realtor will create a listing, complete with photos, possibly videos or virtual tours, and a description of the property.
- They will market the property through various channels, including the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), social media, and possibly local advertising.
6. **Showings and Open Houses**:
- Potential buyers, often with their realtors, will visit your home.
- Open houses can also be organized to attract a broader audience over a specific time frame, keep in mind however that other agents may do the open house other than your agent, as in BC you are not able to sell your own listings (dual agency ban), and can help sell your property.
7. **Receiving and Reviewing Offers**:
- Buyers will submit formal offers, typically through their realtors.
- Your realtor will present these offers to you, and you can accept, reject, or counter.
8. **Negotiations**:
- There may be back-and-forth negotiations on price, conditions (like buyer's home inspection or sale of their property), and possession date.
9. **Accepting an Offer**:
- Once both parties agree on terms, the offer becomes a binding contract.
- The buyer will typically conduct a home inspection, and any issues raised might lead to further negotiations.
10. **Finalizing the Sale**:
- A lawyer or notary in BC typically handles the transaction's legal side. They'll ensure all paperwork is in order, handle the transfer of funds, and transfer the property title to the buyer.
11. **Prepare for Closing**:
- Finalize your moving plans, disconnect utilities, and inform relevant parties of your change of address.
12. **Completion and Possession**:
- On the completion date, legal ownership transfers to the buyer, and they will provide the funds for the purchase.
- On the possession date, hand over the keys to the buyer.
13. **Post-Sale**:
- Ensure all final bills related to the property are settled. Your realtor might check in to ensure the process was satisfactory.
When selling a home, especially in a market like the Okanagan, working with a knowledgeable realtor can ensure you get the best value for your property and navigate the process efficiently. Remember to maintain open communication with your realtor, ensuring you're aligned at every step.