Selling a home can be a complex process. Whether you’re a first-time seller or have been through the process before, you may still have numerous questions about how things work and what to expect. To help simplify things, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about selling a home:

Although homes are bought and sold year-round, spring and early summer are traditionally considered the best times to sell, mainly because the weather is pleasant and potential buyers are more active. However, your local market conditions, including supply and demand and economic factors, will play a significant role in determining the best time to sell in your area.

You’ll want to start with a comparative market analysis (CMA) to see how much homes similar to yours have sold for in your area. A real estate agent can provide this for you. It’s crucial to price your home competitively to attract potential buyers.

In most cases, yes. Homes that are in better condition tend to sell faster and often for a higher price. Address any glaring issues like leaks, broken windows, or malfunctioning systems. Cosmetic updates can also make a significant difference in the eyes of buyers.

This varies widely based on local market conditions, the price of your home, its condition, and how effectively it’s marketed. On average, homes were on the market for about 25 days in 2024. However, some homes sell in a few days, while others can take months.

A real estate agent can provide various services, including pricing guidance, marketing, conducting showings, negotiating on your behalf, and guiding you through the closing process. They have knowledge of the local market and have the tools and resources to help maximize your home’s visibility to potential buyers.

Cleanliness and decluttering are crucial. You’ll also want to depersonalize the space by removing personal photos and items. This helps potential buyers visualize themselves in the home. Consider staging, which can make rooms appear larger and more inviting.

Closing costs are fees associated with finalizing a real estate transaction. They can include things like title searches, inspections, and loan origination fees. Both the buyer and seller have closing costs, but who pays what can sometimes be negotiated.

Having a pre-listing inspection can be beneficial because it can uncover any potential issues that might deter buyers or cause negotiations to break down. If problems are found, you can address them before listing, which can help in pricing the home accurately and potentially speed up the sale.

If your home doesn’t sell after a reasonable amount of time, consider re-evaluating the price or making additional repairs or updates. You might also reconsider your marketing strategy or even change real estate agents if you feel that might make a difference.

Multiple offers can be a good problem to have but can also be overwhelming. Consider each offer’s terms, not just the price. Things like closing date, contingencies, and buyer financing can make a difference in which offer is best for you.

Selling a home is a significant decision and often a complex process. Stay informed, work with professionals you trust, and keep your end goals in mind. With the right approach, you can navigate the home-selling journey successfully.