Your property is now on the market and ready for showings to begin.

• The lockbox is in place (with a key that works)
• There are brochures in the brochure box (hopefully with extras that you can use to refill when it gets low - do NOT let it go empty, this is frustrating for buyers who stop by)
• The home is listed on the MLS with GREAT PHOTOS, a VIRTUAL TOUR, and no typos or incorrect information (details on the home and amenities, directions to the home, etc). Ask to see the MLS listing to make sure.
• Repairs have been done, the curb appeal is outstanding, there are no odors in the house, all the lamps have working lightbulbs, and you have completed everything your agent has suggested to make the house shine
• All the personal stuff has been put away and the house is STAGED for showing.

Depending now the arrangements for showing (appointments, accompanied showings, agents must call in advance OR can come whenever), you will hopefully see a good flow of people. Every morning before you head off to whatever you do, or even if you are home, you will need to make sure the house is in showing condition. You never know when someone will want to come by. It's a hassle but you need to make sure the home looks its best at all times. Remember what a turn-off it was for you when you were looking at homes and they were a mess, or smelled?

Unless you are in more of a seller's market, the competition is stiff, and buyers these days are being very fussy about the homes they look at, since they have so many choices. And many look for reasons to NOT BUY as opposed to reasons TO BUY. A messy house is a good reason to NOT BUY.

This can be a real challenge, especially if you are preparing for your relocation - looking for a new home, job hunting, starting to pack, and so on. Certainly if there are some things that cannot get done for these reasons, or some packing boxes are out, buyers will likely understand, especially if they know that you are in the process of moving. But try to minimize it. The faster you get your home sold the sooner you can move yourself to your new location.

FIRST TIME HOME SELLER SERIES:

Article 4 First Time Home Sellers – The Fun Begins

Article 3 First Time Home Sellers – Don’t Forget These Questions

Article 2 First Time Home Sellers – The Agent Interview

Article 1 First Time Home Sellers – Getting Started