“Selling your home is a significant milestone, and I’m here to ensure the process is smooth, transparent, and rewarding. With a tailored strategy and a focus on your goals, we’ll work together to achieve the best possible outcome.”
WE ARE CHELSIE & KAREN FRANZ, YOUR EMERALD FOREST EXPERTS
THE RIGHT AGENT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST, RESULTS YOU CAN COUNT ON
With a combined 40 years in the San Antonio real estate market, we aim to help you achieve your selling goals while ensuring a smooth and personalized experience We love the energy and charm of San Antonio and are passionate about helping others find their home here In this presentation we will explain the home selling process, current market trends, pricing, and staging tips Our goal is to make your selling experience enjoyable and successful, whether you're a seasoned seller or new to the process. Let's collaborate to reach your goals!
TEAMWORK
Selling your property requires a thorough approach, and we are dedicated to offering you exceptional service You'll benefit from the resources of my premier brokerage and the collaborative efforts of my specialized team I have access to the tools and expertise necessary to assist you at every stage of the process This encompasses advanced marketing strategies, efficient transaction management, and personalized client care I harness these resources to develop a customized plan that addresses your specific needs, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience By utilizing the available support, we can deliver the attention, expertise, and results you truly deserve
Chelsie Franz
LISTING AGENT
Karen Franz BUYER’S AGENT
Brandt IN HOUSE LEGAL COUNSEL
KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY
1. LARGER POOL OF BUYERS:
•Large Network of Agents & Buyers
•Strong Online Presence
•Reaching Buyers Globally
2. ROBUST MARKETING:
•Professional Photos and Videos
•Cutting-Edge Online Ads
•Expert Marketing Help
3. STRONGER TECHNOLOGY:
•Easy Online Paperwork
•Modern Tools for Marketing
•Up-To-Date Market Data
4. FULL SUPPORT:
•Agent Support and Training
•Legal and Compliance
•Relocation Services
Garrett
LISTING CONSULTATION
IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU
Our first meeting is about you We’ll ask about your selling goals and any concerns you have To make the most of our time, please think about these beforehand I'll also bring detailed information and a market analysis showing what's currently selling and what has recently sold in your neighborhood.
During our consultation, we will:
Work to understand your selling goals, timeline, and concerns for alignment
Share market knowledge, explain the selling process, and answer your questions
Offer insights into the market and a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) for real-time market data
Preparation is Key: Reflect on:
Your moving timeline: Are you looking for a quick sale or flexible timing?
Financial expectations: What do you hope to net from your sale?
Concerns about listing or buying: Write down any questions or worries
Outcome: By the end of our consultation:
A clear understanding of the selling process
A tailored marketing plan
Confidence in my guidance
Insight into your property's market value
From there, we have a few paths we can take:
We're a Great Fit: We decide to partner up, sign the agreement, and then I’ll create a plan to sell your home fast and for the best price
I’m Not the Right Fit: If my approach isn’t what you need, that's fine I’m happy to answer any questions and provide referrals if necessary
I may choose not to list: I may recommend a different option that better suits your needs
Your success is my priority, even if it means suggesting another path
I'm here to be a resource for you, whether you choose to work with me or not.
My goal is to understand your unique needs and goals, so we can create a tailored plan to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
YOUR HOME, OUR PRIORITY: UNDERSTANDING YOUR GOALS
Selling your home is a big decision, and I want to make it seamless. Let’s talk about what matters to you, your goals, and any updates to your home. This will help me guide you through the process.
Your Priorities:
A QUICK SALE
MAXIMIZE PROFIT
MINIMIZE STRESS AND DISRUPTION
Your Timeline:
WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL LISTING DATE?
WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL CLOSING DATE?
Features & Upgrades:
KITCHEN RENOVATIONS:
BATHROOM UPDATES:
FLOORING CHANGES:
OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES:
ENERGY EFFICIENCY:
Your Target Price:
WHAT IS YOUR MINIMUM LIST PRICE?
WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL SALE PRICE?
Needs and Concerns:
PETS
YOUNG CHILDREN
SPECIFIC SHOWING PREFERENCES
Basic Information:
# OF BEDS:
# OF BATHS:
LOT SIZE: SQFT:
SMART HOME TECH:
It's important to be upfront about any potential issues.
Have You Noticed Any:
STRUCTURAL ISSUES:
WATER DAMAGE:
PEST INFESTATIONS:
OTHER CONCERNS:
TENSTEPSTO SOLD
SIMPLIFYING THE JOURNEY
Consultation & Sign Agreement
Sit down with your real estate agent to discuss your selling goals and timeline. You'll review the agent's services and commission, then sign an agreement to officially work together.
Home Assessment & Pricing Strategy
Your agent will analyze your home's features, condition, and recent comparable sales to determine its market value Together, you'll develop a pricing strategy that balances your desired selling price with market conditions
Prepare & Stage Property
Get your home ready to shine! This includes decluttering, deep cleaning, making any necessary repairs, and staging your home to highlight its best features and appeal to buyers
Professional photos and even videos are a must! Your agent will arrange for highquality visuals to showcase your home in its best light and begin marketing it to potential buyers
TENSTEPSTO SOLD
SIMPLIFYING THE JOURNEY
Your home's listing goes live on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and popular online platforms like Zillow and Realtorcom, making it visible to a wide range of buyers
06
Showings & Open Houses:
Buyers and their agents will schedule showings to view your home. You might also hold open houses to allow potential buyers to drop in and explore
07 Receive Offers:
Potential buyers will present their offers, detailing their suggested purchase price along with any additional terms This process allows sellers to evaluate not just the price, but also the conditions, ensuring they choose the best overall option for their needs
You and your agent will review offers, negotiate with buyers (potentially with counteroffers), and ultimately accept the offer that best meets your needs
Inspections & Appraisals:
The buyer usually performs a home inspection to spot potential issues, while the lender orders an appraisal to verify the home's value for financing Findings from both may lead to further negotiations or credits
Closing Day:
Your last step! You will complete all required paperwork to finalize the sale, transfer ownership of the property to the buyer, and receive your proceeds Once everything is signed and sealed, you can celebrate the successful completion of the sale Congratulations!
SETTING THE RIGHT PRICE
THE FIRST STEP TO SUCCESS
Below Market Value Pricing
INCREASES INTEREST AND MAY LEAD TO BIDDING WARS, RAISING THE FINAL SALE PRICE
At Market Value Pricing
ATTRACTS DIVERSE BUYERS FOR FAIR AND TIMELY SALES
Above Market Value Pricing
SUITABLE FOR HOMES WITH UNIQUE FEATURES OR STRONG MARKET CONDITIONS
PRICE IT RIGHT: AVOIDING MARKET SILENCE
OVERPRICING YOUR HOME LEADS TO ONE THING: INACTIVITY.
No showings, no offers, just a missed opportunity Accurate pricing is the cornerstone of a successful sale.
Pricing is a strategic process, not a guessing game It's the single most impactful decision you'll make when listing your property.
IN THIS LISTING CONSULTATION, WE NEED TO:
•Match your expectations to the real market: Let’s analyze current market data and recent sales to establish a realistic price.
•Create a tailored pricing strategy: Working together, we'll develop a plan that positions your home for maximum impact.
•Prevent the "no-activity" scenario: By pricing correctly, we'll generate buyer interest and ensure a timely sale.
THE POWER OF PRESENTATION:
A clean, staged home can significantly boost its value, with studies showing staged homes selling for up to 17% more than non-staged ones. Cleaning and decluttering can also add an average of $30,000 + to a home's value, according to a Zillow study.
First impressions are crucial; potential buyers form opinions within seconds of entering a home.
A clean, organized space helps them envision living there, fostering an emotional connection that can lead to stronger offers.
PRE-LISTING CHECKLIST
GETTING READY TO LIST YOUR HOME
GENERAL
☐ Declutter: Remove excess items
☐ Depersonalize: Store personal photos
☐ Clean: Deep clean thoroughly
☐ Neutralize Odors: Eliminate bad smells
☐ Repair & Maintain: Fix minor issues
☐ Paint Touch-Ups: Refresh with neutral paint.
☐ Lighting: Ensure all lights work.
☐ Temperature: Set a comfortable climate.
☐ Valuables: Protect important items.
☐ Pets: Arrange care for pets.
KITCHEN
☐ Appliances: Clean inside and out
☐ Counters: Clear and organize
☐ Cabinets: Organize and declutter
☐ Sink: Clean and shine
☐ Pantry: Organize and check expiration dates
☐ Lighting: Make sure it's bright!
☐ Trash: Empty all cans
☐ Floors: Sweep and mop
☐ Windows: Clean windows and blinds/curtains.
☐ Backsplash: Clean and touch up grout.
☐ Small Appliances: Put away extras.
☐ Hardware: Polish cabinet knobs and pulls.
☐ Under Sink: Organize and clean..
EXTERIOR
☐ Lawn: Mow and edge
☐ Plants: Tidy and add mulch
☐ Front Door: Clean or paint
☐ Porch: Sweep and add a fresh mat & plant
☐ Windows: Clean
☐ Siding: Clean or power wash.
☐ Driveway/Walkways: Clean and repair.
☐ Lighting: Ensure all lights work.
☐ Deck/Patio: Clean and stage.
☐ Gutters: Clean.
☐ Fences: Repair if needed.
☐ House Number: Visible and in good condition
☐ Mailbox: Clean and repair
LIVING & DINING ROOM
☐Declutter: Remove excess furniture and items
☐ Surfaces: Dust and clean all surfaces
☐ Fireplace: Clean and ensure it works
☐ Windows: Clean windows and treatments
☐ Floors: Vacuum or clean
☐ Lighting: Ensure good lighting in both areas.
☐ Walls: Touch up paint.
☐ Electronics: Hide cords and cables.
☐ Artwork: Tasteful pieces to enhance the space.
☐ Mirrors: Make the room feel bigger.
BEDROOMS
☐Declutter: Clear away excess items
☐ Bed: Make it neatly
☐ Closets: Organize and tidy
☐ Nightstands: Clear off the clutter
☐ Surfaces: Dust everything
☐ Windows: Clean windows and treatments.
☐ Floors: Vacuum or clean.
☐ Lighting: Ensure good lighting.
☐ Walls: Touch up paint.
☐ Dresser: Clear and organize.
☐ Mirrors: Clean and sparkling.
BATHROOMS
☐ Surfaces: Deep clean everything
☐ Declutter: Remove personal items
☐ Towels: Fresh and neatly hung
☐ Mirrors: Sparkling clean
☐ Shower Curtain/Door: Clean or replace
☐ Floors: Clean and mop
☐ Grout & Caulk: Clean or repair
☐ Toiletries: Minimize what's visible.
☐ Trash: Empty all cans.
☐ Air Freshener: Subtle scent.
☐ Ventilation: Ensure good airflow.
☐ Toilet Paper: Restock!
☐ Lighting: Brighten up!
☐ Rugs: Clean or replace
☐ Hardware: Polish fixtures
STAGED TO SELL STYLED TO CAPTIVATE &
STAGING THAT ATTRACTS THE IMPORTANCE OF STAGING
1 Why Stage?
Faster Sale: Staged homes sell faster
Higher Price: Staging can increase your home's selling price
Better First Impression: A well-staged makes a lasting impression on buyers
Easier Visualization: Staging helps buyers envision themselves living in your home
Cost-Effective: The investment is often less than the price reduction
2
What is Staging?
Decluttering and Depersonalizing: Removing excess furniture, personal items, and clutter.
Neutralizing: Creating a neutral palette that appeals to a wider range of buyers
Furniture Arrangement: Arranging furniture to optimize flow and create inviting spaces
Highlighting Features: Showcasing your home's best features
Creating Ambiance: Adding the final personal touches to make your home look inviting
3
Virtual Staging
As your agents, we provide complimentary virtual staging as part of our service If we feel a room could benefit, we can digitally remove existing furniture and stage the space with customized furnishings to highlight its best use We partner with a professional company that specializes in this art, ensuring each room looks inviting and appealing This is especially important because most buyers begin their search online When they can visualize the potential of a space, they’re more likely to be drawn to see it in person Whether they tour an empty home and imagine their own furniture, or view your furnishings for a different perspective, virtual staging helps them connect with the property on a deeper level
In short, every photo of your home will be thoughtfully staged to make the strongest impression possible
Real Estate Photography That Sells THE IMPACT OF VISUAL ELEMENTS:
In today's digital age, stunning photography is non-negotiable for a successful home sale.
98% 89%
Did you know that of homebuyers search for homes online? And, according to the National Association of Realtors, of homebuyers find photos to be "very useful" in their home search.
High-quality real estate photography is your home's first showing. It's what captures attention, drives clicks, and ultimately, brings buyers through the door.
PHOTOSHOOT PREPARATION
A CHECKLIST TO PREPARE FOR PHOTOS
General
Declutter: Remove excess items, personal belongings, and unnecessary furniture Less is more!
Clean: Deep clean the entire house, paying close attention to floors, windows, and surfaces.
Depersonalize: Put away family photos and personal items.
Neutralize: Aim for a neutral and universally appealing look.
Kitchen
Counters: Clear everything off, except for maybe one stylish appliance (like a coffee maker) and a bowl of fruit
Sink: Make sure it's empty and sparkling clean
Cabinets: No magnets or clutter on the outside.
Table: Clear it off or set it simply with minimal place settings.
Bathrooms
Counters: Clear of toiletries
Toilet: Lid down!
Towels: Fresh, matching towels neatly hung
Shower/Tub: Remove personal items and clean thoroughly
Living & Dining Rooms
Furniture: Arrange to maximize space and flow
Cushions: Fluff pillows and fold throws neatly
Mantle: Simple and stylish décor only
Dining Table: Consider a simple centerpiece
Bedrooms
Beds: Made perfectly with clean, wrinkle-free linens
Nightstands: Clear, except for maybe a lamp and a book
Closets: Tidy and organized (buyers will peek!)
Exterior
Lawn: Mow and edge.
Landscaping: Tidy and add fresh mulch.
Cars: Move cars out of the driveway.
Trash Cans: Hide them away.
Hose/Gardening Tools: Put them away neatly
Final Touches
Lights: Turn on all lights.
Blinds/Curtains: Open for natural light.
Doors: Open interior doors for flow.
Pets: Keep them out of the way during the shoot.
PRE-MARKETING STRATEGY
We know homes get the most attention when they launch on Thursdays, capturing weekend buyers.
So, we'll work backwards working towards that, creating a pre-marketing plan to maximize that impact.
MARKETING YOUR HOME
A CUSTOMIZED APPROACH
Forget one-size-fits-all strategies; each home and marketing plan should be unique. In today's digital age, a strong mix of print and digital marketing is essential to attract the right buyers With a targeted marketing plan designed just for your home, I'll leverage my expertise and data to get you the best results
ALL THE TOOLS WE OFFER TO SHOWCASE YOUR HOME
PRINT & TRADITIONAL MARKETING
Signage & Visibility
☐ YARD SIGN ON PROPERTY
☐ PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE
☐ BROKER-ONLY PREVIEW EVENT
☐ COMMUNITY SHOWCASE EVENT
Print Collateral
☐ CUSTOM PROPERTY BROCHURE
☐ PRINT ADVERTISING
☐ NEIGHBORHOOD FLYERS/POSTCARDS
Direct Mail
☐ TARGETED POSTCARD MAILING
☐ RELOCATION PACKET INCLUSION
Networking
☐ NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENT
☐ ANNOUNCEMENT AT BROKERAGES
Public Relations
☐ PRESS RELEASE DISTRIBUTION
☐ LOCAL MAGAZINE FEATURE
☐ TRADITIONAL OUTREACH
☐ TELEPHONE MARKETING CAMPAIGN
DIGITAL & MODERN MARKETING
Photography & Video
☐ PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY
☐ VIRTUAL HOME TOUR
☐ YOUTUBE VIDEO WALKTHROUGH
☐ INSTAGRAM/TIKTOK SHOWCASE
Online Presence
☐ CUSTOM PROPERTY WEBSITE
☐ BROKERAGE WEBSITE FEATURE
☐ TARGETED ONLINE ADS
Listing Launch
☐ MLS LISTING LAUNCH
☐ ONLINE LISTING SYNDICATION
Social Media
☐ SOCIAL MEDIA PROMOTION
☐ INSTAGRAM/TIKTOK SHOWCASE
☐ CONTENT DAY WITH BROKERAGE -
VIDEO SHOWCASE WITH 30 TOP REALTORS
Email Marketing
☐ EMAIL MARKETING CAMPAIGN
Pre-Marketing
☐ "COMING SOON" PRE-MARKETING
MARKETING SCHEDULE
COMING SOON:
Listed online as "coming soon," and signage will be placed - unless specified otherwise. This creates anticipation and early buzz, allowing potential buyers to plan ahead and generating immediate local interest.
DECLUTTER, DEPERSONALIZE, DEEP CLEAN:
Removing 30% of items, including personal photos, creates a blank canvas Enhance with rugs and greenery This allows buyers to visualize their own lives in the space, and a clean home shows pride of ownership
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOSHOP & IMAGERY:
High-resolution photos and video will be professionally edited in Photoshop to ensure optimal presentation. This enhances the visual appeal and highlights the home's best features.
PRINT CAMPAIGN:
Flyers and Postcards. Professionally designed print materials will be distributed to targeted areas, reaching potential buyers through direct mail and local distribution.
SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN:
Engaging posts and targeted ads will be launched across various platforms. This generates online visibility, drives traffic to the listing, and fosters interaction with potential buyers.
LISTING LIVE ON THURSDAY:
To capture the most weekend buyer interest, the listing will go live This timing maximizes exposure and creates a sense of urgency
OPEN HOUSE OPENING WEEKEND:
Schedule open houses for the first weekend to generate immediate showings This provides a personal touch and allows potential buyers to experience the home firsthand
Our strategy is built on maximizing your home's exposure to elevate its visibility, reaching thousands of qualified buyers across diverse platforms.
This approach reflects the current buyer trends: a digital-first landscape where 51% find homes online and 69% rely on mobile. We complement this with strong agent representation, as 86% of buyers still value their expertise.
TIME FOR SHOWINGS
Showings are essential in the home selling process, allowing potential buyers to imagine living in your property Keeping your home clean, inviting, and clutter-free enhances the showing experience and boosts the chances of a successful sale Here's how to maximize their impact:
MUST-DOS BEFORE EVERY SHOWING:
To ensure your home is always ready to make a fantastic impression, please remember these essential steps before each scheduled showing:
•Give Space:
Buyers feel more comfortable and can better visualize themselves in the space when the current occupants are not present.
•Take Your Pets (and Their
Evidence):
While buyers may love animals, not everyone does Removing pets ensures no allergies or fears interfere Don't forget to take pet food bowls, toys, and clean up any pet hair or accidents
•Hide Medications and Personal Items:
For privacy and security, ensure all medications and sensitive personal items are out of sight
•Quick Clutter Control:
If time is short, grab a laundry basket and quickly place any visible clutter into it. If you have time, take the basket with you during the showing. This instantly creates a tidier appearance.
SHOW-READY IN MINUTES: A TIME-BASED TIDY GUIDE
•TARGET HIGH-IMPACT ZONES:
Living room, kitchen, bathrooms.
•SURFACE SHINE:
Wipe counters and sinks for a fresh look
•AERATE & ILLUMINATE:
Open windows (weather permitting) and turn on all lights Consider subtle scents
•FINAL TOUCH-UP:
Straighten pillows, fold blankets, and do a quick clutter sweep.
Take a quick look for any glaring issues 1 HOUR NOTICE
•PRIORITIZE KEY SPACES:
Living room, kitchen, and the primary bathroom.
•CLEAR & CLEAN:
Remove clutter from visible surfaces (tables, counters, vanities)
•MAKE BEDS: Ensure all beds are neatly made
•QUICK TIDY & LIGHT:
Straighten visible items, stow shoes/coats, and turn on main lights.
•CLUTTER CONTROL:
Use a "grab-and-go" basket for immediate clutter removal
•SPOT CLEAN: Quickly wipe away any visible spills or marks
•LIGHTING CHECK:
Ensure main lights are on
•FINAL SCAN:
THE IMPACT OF AN OPEN HOUSE:
While it's true that the majority of homes aren't directly sold during an open house, dismissing them entirely would be a missed opportunity. In today's digital age, the open house remains a valuable tool for showcasing your property and generating crucial interest
Why It Is Worth Your Time?
BOOSTING ONLINE VISIBILITY:
An open house significantly boosts your home's exposure on third-party real estate websites. Homes with scheduled open houses are often featured more prominently, appearing closer to the top of search results This increased visibility translates to more online views and potential buyers
CREATING A BUZZ:
An open house generates immediate local buzz. It signals that your property is available and actively being marketed, attracting attention from neighbors, potential buyers, and even other real estate professionals This buzz can translate into online activity, with increased views and shares of your listing.
GATHERING VALUABLE INSIGHTS:
Open houses provide valuable feedback from potential buyers You can gauge their reactions, identify any concerns, and gain insights into how your property is perceived. This feedback can be used to make adjustments to your pricing or staging.
SECURING THE BEST TERMS
Receiving an offer on your home is exciting! But it's rarely the end of the process. Negotiation is often the next step to reach an agreement that works for both you and the buyer Here's what to expect:
When you get an offer on your home, it usually includes the price, closing date, things that need to happen for the sale to go through (like getting a loan), what's included in the sale (like appliances), and a deposit from the buyer. To decide if it's a good offer, think about if the price is fair, if the conditions are reasonable, and if the closing date works for you.
AFTER AN OFFER IS SUBMITTED
WE CAN:
•Accept the offer
•Decline the offer
If the offer isn’t close enough to your expectation and there is no need to further negotiate.
•Counter-offer
A counter-offer is when you, the seller, offer different terms to the buyer
THE BUYER CAN THEN: OFFER IS ACCEPTED:
•Accept the counter-offer
•Decline the counter-offer
•Counter the offer
You can negotiate back and forth as many times as needed until you can reach an agreement or someone chooses to walk away.
You will sign the purchase agreement and you are now officially under contract! This period of time is called the contingency period.
Now inspections, appraisals, or anything else built into your purchase agreement will take place.
FROM OFFER TO CLOSING
1. ACCEPTANCE & CONTRACT:
BUYER MAKES AN OFFER:
SELLER REVIEWS, ACCEPTS, CREATING A LEGALLY BINDING CONTRACT (1-3 DAYS)
2. CONTINGENCIES (CHECKS & BALANCES):
HOME INSPECTION: BUYER CHECKS FOR PROBLEMS (5-10 DAYS)
FINANCING: BUYER SECURES A LOAN (3-5 WEEKS)
APPRAISAL: LENDER CONFIRMS PROPERTY VALUE (1-2 WEEKS)
TERMITE/MOISTURE INSPECTION: CHECKS FOR PEST DAMAGE (1-3 DAYS)
3. PREPARATION FOR CLOSING:
SELLER COMPLETES AGREED-UPON REPAIRS (VARIABLE)
TITLE COMPANY VERIFIES OWNERSHIP (1-2 WEEKS)
BUYER'S FINAL WALKTHROUGH (1 DAY)
HOA DOCS (IF APPLICABLE) (3-7 DAYS)
4. CLOSING:
SIGN ALL PAPERWORK FUNDS ARE TRANSFERRED KEYS ARE EXCHANGED (1-2 DAYS)
OVERALL TIMELINE: TYPICALLY 30-60 DAYS (CAN VARY)
FACTORS IMPACTING TIME:
FINANCING, APPRAISALS, REPAIRS, TITLE ISSUES, SCHEDULING
NAVIGATING APPRAISALS
The appraisal process is crucial in real estate transactions, particularly with financing. It includes an independent evaluation of a property's market value by a licensed appraiser, ordered by the lender to confirm the loan amount aligns with the property's worth.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING AN APPRAISAL:
•Appraiser conducts a thorough inspection evaluating:
◦Square footage and layout
◦Condition of the structure, roof, and foundation
◦Quality of finishes and upgrades
◦Recent renovations or improvements
•Appraisers use recent sales of similar nearby homes ("comps") to determine your home's fair market value
•The appraiser create a comprehensive report and submit it to the lender
POTENTIAL OUTCOMES & CONSIDERATIONS:
APPRAISAL MATCHES OFFER:
If the appraised value matches or exceeds the agreed-upon purchase price, the transaction typically proceeds smoothly.
APPRAISAL BELOW OFFER:
If the appraised value is lower than the offer, it can create challenges.
OPTIONS INCLUDE:
Renegotiating the purchase price
The buyer paying the difference
The seller challenging the appraisal with additional comps
The deal falling through
Timeline: Appraisals typically take 1-2 weeks to complete
Factors like appraiser availability and property complexity can influence the timeline.
HOME INSPECTIONS
WHAT IS INCLUDED:
Roof & Components
Exterior & Siding
Basement
Foundation
Crawlspace
Structure
Heating & Cooling
Plumbing
Electrical
Attic & Insulation
Doors
Windows & Lighting
Appliances (limited)
Attached Garages
Garage Doors
Grading & Drainage
All Stairs
INSPECTION TIME FRAME:
Typically, 10-14 days after signing a contract, with negotiations usually occurring within a 5 day timeframe
COSTS
No cost to the seller; the buyer selects and pays for the inspection by their chosen inspector
POSSIBLE OUTCOMES:
Inspections and potential repairs are usually one of the top reasons a sale does not lead to a closing
COMMON PROBLEMS COULD BE: Foundation, electrical, plumbing, pests, structural, mold, radon
UPON COMPLETION:
•BUYER CAN ACCEPT AS IS
•BUYER CAN OFFER TO RENEGOTIATE
•BUYER CAN CANCEL CONTRACT
“Chelsie and Karen’s strategic approach to marketing our property was impressive. They understood who our potential buyer might be and used innovative techniques to attract the right buyer. Their expertise and attention to detail throughout the process made all the difference when selling our home!”
- Marilynn and Brad Forrester
CLOSING THE SALE
WHAT TO EXPECT
Closing is the process in which funds and documents are transferred to transfer ownership of the property to the buyer. The escrow officer will look over the contract and find out what payments are owed by all parties, prepare documents for closing, perform the closing, make sure all payoffs are completed, that the buyer's title is recorded, and that you receive payoffs that are due to you.
YOUR COSTS
SELLER COMMONLY PAYS:
•Mortgage balance & penalties: If applicable
•Any claims against the property:
Including but not limited to liens or judgments
•Unpaid assessments:
For HOA or other property associations
•Real estate agent commissions:
As agreed upon in the listing agreement
•Title insurance policy:
To protect the buyer's ownership rights
•Home warranty:
Optional, but often requested by buyers for peace of mind
WHAT TO BRING AFTER CLOSING
SELLERS NEED TO BRING TO CLOSING:
• A government picture ID
• House keys
• Garage door openers
• Mailbox and any other spare keys
SAVE THESE FOR TAXES:
• Copies of all closing documents
• All home improvement receipts
FINAL STEPS
CANCEL POLICIES
Once title transfer has occurred contact your insurance agent to cancel your policy so you can receive a refund of any prepaid premiums.
CLOSE ACCOUNTS
Cancel utilities and close those accounts Keep a list of phone numbers for each of your utility and entertainment companies
CHANGE ADDRESS
Let everyone know your new address Submit a change-of-address form to the post office.
TURN EVERYTHING OFF
Turn off valves to the sinks, toilets, appliances, and water heater. Turn off all light switches and fans. Lastly, call the electric company.
DOCUMENTS
Secure all closing documents as well as the contract and closing documents. Keep them in a safe place.
GATHER HOME PAPERWORK
Put together a packet of manuals, receipts, and any warranties as well.
CLEAR OUT PERSONALS
Move out your personal belongings completely. Check all drawers, cabinets, and closets.
CLEAN
Before you leave, ensure your home is clean. Thoroughly clean the cabinets, refrigerator, and appliances inside and out Don’t forget to clean the garage Arrange for trash pickup before closing day Leave your home in the condition you would want as a buyer
INCIDENTALS
Leave all house keys, remotes, gate keys, pool keys, and mailbox keys in a drawer in the kitchen.
FLOORS
Vacuum and sweep floors one more time
LOCK UP
Ensure all blinds are closed, and lock the windows and doors
“Karen
and Chelsie are incredible negotiators. They delivered a fantastic offer on our property and gave us complete confidence knowing they were always in our corner”
- Janet and Rick Hudson
LISTING AGENT AGREEMENT
Before we list your home, it's important to understand how my compensation works. This listing agent agreement outlines our partnership and ensures a smooth and successful selling experience
WHAT IS A LISTING AGENT AGREEMENT?
This agreement clarifies our working relationship and how I'll be compensated for helping you sell your home It's designed to be transparent and upfront
STARTING WITH A SOLID FOUNDATION
Recent changes in real estate practices emphasize clear communication about agent fees
This agreement ensures we're on the same page from the start.
KEY ELEMENTS OF THE AGREEMENT:
My Services: I will market your property, conduct showings, negotiate offers, and manage the closing process.
Your Role: You will provide necessary information about your property and be available for communication throughout the process
Duration: The agreement covers a specific timeframe, which can be adjusted as needed.
Compensation: My compensation is typically 6% of the final sales price We share 3% of this commission with the buyers agent. Offering compensation to the buyer's agent is your choice and can be negotiated While buyer agent compensation is no longer listed on the MLS, we can still discuss it directly and negotiate it as part of the offer
Marketing: We'll discuss and create a tailored marketing plan for your property.
BENEFITS OF A LISTING AGENT AGREEMENT:
Clarity: The agreement provides a clear understanding of our roles and responsibilities
Advocacy: I'm your advocate, working to get you the best possible price and terms.
Customization: We can tailor the agreement to fit your specific needs
Reduced Stress: Having a professional on your side simplifies the selling process.
OPEN COMMUNICATION AND NO PRESSURE:
My priority is your comfort and understanding. I encourage you to ask any questions you have about the Listing Agent Agreement This partnership is built on trust and transparency, and there’s no obligation to sign until you're completely ready
MOVING FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCE:
This agreement sets the stage for a successful sale Once you're ready to sign, we can officially list your home!
YOUR QUESTIONS MATTER
I understand that selling your home is a significant decision! I want you to feel assured about our strategy.
•Is there anything that still raises questions for you? •Do you believe this is the right strategy to get your home sold?
I am confident that we can reach your objectives together I'm excited to partner with you and will ensure you get the service you deserve!
IF YOU ARE READY, LET’S TAKE THE NEXT STEPS
1. Sign the Listing Agreement: We'll review the paperwork and officially start working together
2. Schedule Professional Photography: We'll arrange for a photographer & videographer to take pictures / video of your home.
3. Prepare for Photos: I'll give you a checklist to help you get your home ready for the photoshoot.
4. "For Sale" Sign Installation: We’ll put a "For Sale" sign in your yard Unless otherwise specified Signs are not a requirement to list your home
5. Choose Your Listing Date: We'll decide when to officially list your home for sale.
6. Final Review: We'll meet to go over everything before your home is listed.
Thank you for the opportunity to present my services in your home-selling journey! Our mission is simple:
We aim to help you sell your home at the best possible price, within your desired timeframe, and with as little stress as possible. Your successful sale is within reach, and were here to ensure the process is smooth and rewarding. Let’s embark on this exciting journey together! By getting started, we can tailor the selling strategy to your needs and soon transform that 'For Sale' sign into a 'Sold' one, marking the next chapter in your life