Our Proven Las Vegas Home Selling Process: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Approach
Selling your home in Las Vegas involves a complex Las Vegas home selling process that requires expertise, local knowledge, and personalized advocacy. As your dedicated expert real estate agent with over 30 years of experience in real estate, financial advising, and mortgage brokerage, I deliver a comprehensive, data-driven strategy designed to maximize your sale while navigating the unique complexities of the Las Vegas market.
Advanced Step-by-Step Selling Strategy
Our proven Las Vegas home selling process encompasses every critical element to ensure your success:
Market Data Analytics & Initial Consultation
Conduct extensive market research using MLS and public records for comparable properties
Analyze current market trends, buyer demographics, and seasonal patterns
Prepare a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) with pricing strategy rooted in real-time market data
Schedule listing presentation appointment with comprehensive market overview
Custom Preparation & Property Assessment
Perform thorough exterior curb appeal and interior assessment
Provide targeted remodeling and staging recommendations to attract buyers cost-effectively
Compile all property documents—title, zoning, HOA details, utility data—ensuring transparency
Review property's ownership, deed type, lot dimensions, and legal descriptions
Marketing Outreach Strategy
Create strategic master marketing plan leveraging MLS listings, IDX, REALTOR.com integration
Coordinate professional photography, video tours, virtual walk-throughs, and drone aerial imaging
Develop personalized property webpage and unique listing URL
Execute social media campaigns and email marketing to qualified buyer networks
Distribute neighborhood mailers and "Just Listed" announcements
Negotiation & Expert Advocacy
Manage showings and rigorously screen buyers to protect against unqualified offers
Analyze all offers with detailed net sheets and buyer qualification verification
Negotiate contracts with strategic insight, always advocating in your best interest
Handle counteroffers, acceptance, and amendments with professional expertise
Transaction Management & Client Support
Oversee contract, inspection, appraisal, and closing processes for smooth completion
Coordinate with lenders on financing, discount points, and loan tracking
Manage inspection follow-up, repair negotiations, and closing preparations
Provide "no surprises" experience with clear communication throughout
Understanding Market Complexity in Las Vegas
The Las Vegas real estate market presents unique challenges that require an expert real estate agent with deep local knowledge. Market complexity factors include:
Fluctuating supply and demand dynamics influenced by tourism and migration patterns
Seasonal variations affecting buyer behavior and pricing strategies
Neighborhood-specific trends that impact property values differently across the valley
Investment property considerations and cash buyer prevalence
Our data-driven approach incorporates recent sales activity, average days on market, price movements, and area-specific buyer preferences to position your property optimally in this complex market.
Ready to Start Your Las Vegas Home Selling Process?
Don't navigate the complexities of selling your Las Vegas home alone. Contact us today to leverage our proven expertise, comprehensive market knowledge, and personalized advocacy to achieve the best possible outcome for your sale.
Start your home selling journey now →
Receive Market Value Updates
Customized to your neighborhood
Properly Pricing your House for sale
Requires understanding true market values currently, within overall market history, ...
And the movement of prices in current trend
Calculate Demand to accurately determine Pricing
in the equation of Supply & Demand = Market Value
News stories report data that has already happened months ago. Home Sellers listened to those stories and missed out on how to lock in their equity gains by pricing for the current market activity.
Pre-listing activities
___ 1. Make appointment with seller for listing presentation.
___ 2. Send a written or e-mail confirmation of appointment and call to confirm.
___ 3. Review appointment questions.
___ 4. Research all comparable currently listed properties.
___ 5. Research sales activity for past 18 months from MLS and public databases.
___ 6. Research “average days on market” for properties similar in type, price and location.
___ 7. Download and review property tax roll information.
___ 8. Prepare “comparable market analysis” (CMA) to establish market value.
___ 9. Obtain copy of subdivision plat/complex layout.
___ 10. Research property’s ownership and deed type.
___ 11. Research property’s public record information for lot size and dimensions.
___ 12. Verify legal description.
___ 13. Research property’s land use coding and deed restrictions.
___ 14. Research property’s current use and zoning.
___ 15. Verify legal names of owner(s) in county’s public property records.
___ 16. Prepare listing presentation package with above materials.
___ 17. Perform exterior “curb appeal assessment” of subject property.
___ 18. Compile and assemble formal file on property.
___ 19. Confirm current public schools and explain their impact on market value.
___ 20. Review listing appointment checklist to ensure completion of all steps.
Listing appointment presentation
___ 21. Give seller an overview of current market conditions and projections.
___ 22. Review agent and company credentials and accomplishments.
___ 23. Present company’s profile and position or “niche” in the marketplace.
___ 24. Present CMA results, including comparables, solds, current listings and expireds.
___ 25. Offer pricing strategy based on professional judgment and interpretation of current market conditions.
___ 26. Discuss goals to market effectively.
___ 27. Explain market power and benefits of multiple listing service.
___ 28. Explain market power of Web marketing, IDX and REALTOR.com.
___ 29. Explain the work the brokerage and agent do “behind the scenes” and agent’s availability on weekends.
___ 30. Explain agent’s role in screening qualified buyers to protect against curiosity seekers.
___ 31. Present and discuss strategic master marketing plan.
___ 32. Explain different agency relationships and determine seller’s preference.
___ 33. Review all clauses in listing contract and obtain seller’s signature.
After listing agreement is signed
___ 34. Review current title information.
___ 35. Measure overall and heated square footage.
___ 36. Measure interior room sizes.
___ 37. Confirm lot size via owner’s copy of certified survey, if available.
___ 38. Note any and all unrecorded property lines, agreements, easements.
___ 39. Obtain house plans, if applicable and available.
___ 40. Review house plans, make copy.
___ 41. Order plat map for retention in property’s listing file.
___ 42. Prepare showing instructions for buyers’ agents and agree on showing time window with seller.
___ 43. Obtain current mortgage loan(s) information: companies and account numbers.
___ 44. Verify current loan information with lender(s).
___ 45. Check assumability of loan(s) and any special requirements.
___ 46. Discuss possible buyer financing alternatives and options with seller.
___ 47. Review current appraisal if available.
___ 48. Identify Home Owner Association manager if applicable.
___ 49. Verify Home Owner Association fees with manager — mandatory or optional and current annual fee.
___ 50. Order copy of Homeowner Association bylaws, if applicable.
___ 51. Research electricity availability and supplier’s name and phone number.
___ 52. Calculate average utility usage from last 12 months of bills.
___ 53. Research and verify city sewer/septic tank system.
___ 54. Calculate average water system fees or rates from last 12 months of bills.
___ 55. Or confirm well status, depth and output from Well Report.
___ 56. Research/verify natural gas availability, supplier’s name & phone number.
___ 57. Verify security system, term of service and whether owned or leased.
___ 58. Verify if seller has transferable Termite Bond.
___ 59. Ascertain need for lead-based paint disclosure.
___ 60. Prepare detailed list of property amenities and assess market impact.
___ 61. Prepare detailed list of property’s “Inclusions & Conveyances with Sale .”
___ 62. Compile list of completed repairs and maintenance items.
___ 63. Send “Vacancy Checklist” to seller if property is vacant.
___ 64. Explain benefits of Home Owner Warranty to seller.
___ 65. Assist sellers with completion and submission of Home Owner Warranty application.
___ 66. When received, place Home Owner Warranty in property file for conveyance at time of sale.
___ 67. Have extra key made for lockbox.
___ 68. Verify if property has rental units involved. And if so:
___ 69. Make copies of all leases for retention in listing file.
___ 70. Verify all rents and deposits.
___ 71. Inform tenants of listing and discuss how showings will be handled.
___ 72. Arrange for yard sign installation.
___ 73. Assist seller with completion of Seller’s Disclosure form.
___ 74. Complete “new listing checklist.”
___ 75. Review results of Curb Appeal Assessment with seller and provide suggestions to improve salability.
___ 76. Review results of Interior Décor Assessment and suggest changes to shorten time on market.
___ 77. Load listing into transaction management software program.
Entering property in MLS database
___ 78. Prepare MLS Profile Sheet — agent is responsible for “quality control” and accuracy of listing data.
___ 79. Enter property data from Profile Sheet into MLS listing database.
___ 80. Proofread MLS database listing for accuracy, including proper placement in mapping function.
___ 81. Add property to company’s Active Listings list.
___ 82. Provide seller with signed copies of Listing Agreement and MLS Profile Sheet Data Form within 48 hours.
___ 83. Take additional photos for upload into MLS and use in flyers. Discuss efficacy of panoramic photography.
Marketing the listing
___ 84. Create print and Internet ads with seller’s input.
___ 85. Coordinate showings with owners, tenants, and other Realtors®. Return all calls — weekends included.
___ 86. Install electronic lock box if authorized by owner. Program with agreed-upon showing time windows.
___ 87. Prepare mailing and contact list.
___ 88. Generate mail-merge letters to contact list.
___ 89. Order “Just Listed” labels and reports.
___ 90. Prepare flyers and feedback faxes.
___ 91. Review comparable MLS listings regularly to ensure property remains competitive in price, terms, conditions and availability.
___ 92. Prepare property marketing brochure for seller’s review.
___ 93. Arrange for printing or copying of supply of marketing brochures or flyers.
___ 94. Place marketing brochures in all company agent mailboxes.
___ 95. Upload listing to company and agent Internet sites, if applicable.
___ 96. Mail “Just Listed” notice to all neighborhood residents.
___ 97. Advise Network Referral Program of listing.
___ 98. Provide marketing data to buyers from international relocation networks.
___ 99. Provide marketing data to buyers coming from referral network.
___ 100. Provide “Special Feature” cards for marketing, if applicable.
___ 101. Submit ads to company’s participating Internet real estate sites.
___ 102. Convey price changes promptly to all Internet groups.
___ 103. Reprint/supply brochures promptly as needed.
___ 104. Review and update loan information in MLS as required.
___ 105. Send feedback e-mails/faxes to buyers’ agents after showings.
___ 106. Review weekly Market Study.
___ 107. Discuss feedback from showing agents with seller to determine if changes will accelerate the sale.
___ 108. Place regular weekly update calls to seller to discuss marketing & pricing.
___ 109. Promptly enter price changes in MLS listings database.
The offer and contract
___ 110. Receive and review all Offer to Purchase contracts submitted by buyers or buyers’ agents.
___ 111. Evaluate offer(s) and prepare “net sheet” on each for owner to compare.
___ 112. Counsel seller on offers. Explain merits and weakness of each component of each offer.
___ 113. Contact buyers’ agents to review buyer’s qualifications and discuss offer.
___ 114. Fax/deliver Seller’s Disclosure to buyer’s agent or buyer upon request and prior to offer if possible.
___ 115. Confirm buyer is pre-qualified by calling loan officer.
___ 116. Obtain pre-qualification letter on buyer from loan officer.
___ 117. Negotiate all offers on seller’s behalf, setting time limit for loan approval and closing date.
___ 118. Prepare and convey any counteroffers, acceptance or amendments to buyer’s agent.
___ 119. Fax copies of contract and all addendums to closing attorney or title company.
___ 120. When Offer-to-Purchase contract is accepted and signed by seller, deliver to buyer’s agent.
___ 121. Record and promptly deposit buyer’s earnest money into escrow account.
___ 122. Disseminate “Under-Contract Showing Restrictions” as seller requests.
___ 123. Deliver copies of fully signed Offer to Purchase contract to seller.
___ 124. Fax/deliver copies of Offer to Purchase contract to selling agent.
___ 125. Fax copies of Offer to Purchase contract to lender.
___ 126. Provide copies of signed Offer to Purchase contract for office file.
___ 127. Advise seller in handling additional offers to purchase submitted between contract and closing.
___ 128. Change MLS status to “Sale Pending.”
___ 129. Update transaction management program to show “Sale Pending.”
___ 130. Review buyer’s credit report results — Advise seller of worst and best case scenarios.
___ 131. Provide credit report information to seller if property to be seller-financed.
___ 132. Assist buyer with obtaining financing and follow up as necessary.
___ 133. Coordinate with lender on discount points being locked in with dates.
___ 134. Deliver unrecorded property information to buyer.
___ 135. Order septic system inspection, if applicable.
___ 136. Receive and review septic system report and assess any impact on sale.
___ 137. Deliver copy of septic system inspection report to lender and buyer.
___ 138. Deliver well flow test report copies to lender, buyer and listing file.
___ 139. Verify termite inspection ordered.
___ 140. Verify mold inspection ordered, if required.
Tracking the loan process
___ 141. Confirm return of verifications of deposit and buyer’s employment.
___ 142. Follow loan processing through to the underwriter.
___ 143. Add lender and other vendors to transaction management program so agents, buyer and seller can track progress of sale.
___ 144. Contact lender weekly to ensure processing is on track.
___ 145. Relay final approval of buyer’s loan application to seller.
Home inspection
___ 146. Coordinate buyer’s professional home inspection with seller.
___ 147. Review home inspector’s report.
___ 148. Enter completion into transaction management tracking software program.
___ 149. Explain seller’s responsibilities with respect to loan limits and interpret any clauses in the contract.
___ 150. Ensure seller’s compliance with home inspection clause requirements.
___ 151. Recommend/assist seller with identifying and negotiating with trustworthy contractors for required repairs.
___ 152. Negotiate payment and oversee completion of all required repairs on seller’s behalf, if needed.
The appraisal
___ 153. Schedule appraisal.
___ 154. Provide comparable sales used in market pricing to appraiser.
___ 155. Follow up on appraisal.
Closing preparations and duties
___ 158. Make sure contract is signed by all parties.
___ 159. Coordinate closing process with buyer’s agent and lender.
___ 161. Ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale.
___ 162. Select location for closing.
___ 163. Confirm closing date and time and notify all parties.
___ 164. Assist in solving any title problems (boundary disputes, easements, etc.) or in obtaining death certificates.
___ 165. Work with buyer’s agent in scheduling and conducting buyer’s final walk-through prior to closing.
___ 166. Research all tax, HOA, utility and other applicable prorations.
___ 167. Request final closing figures from closing agent (attorney or title company).
___ 168. Receive and carefully review closing figures to ensure accuracy.
___ 169. Forward verified closing figures to buyer’s agent.
___ 170. Request copy of closing documents from closing agent.
___ 171. Confirm buyer and buyer’s agent received title insurance commitment.
___ 172. Provide “Home Owners Warranty” for availability at closing.
___ 173. Review all closing documents carefully for errors.
___ 174. Forward closing documents to absentee seller as requested.
___ 175. Review documents with closing agent (attorney).
___ 176. Provide earnest money deposit from escrow account to closing agent.
___ 177. Coordinate closing with seller’s next purchase, resolving timing issues.
___ 178. Have a “no surprises” closing so that seller receives a net proceeds check at closing.
___ 180. Change MLS status to Sold. Enter sale date, price, selling broker and agent’s ID numbers, etc.
___ 181. Close out listing in transaction management program.
Steps to a Positive Showing
This page describes the key steps to making for a positive showing of your property.
You only get one opportunity to make a good impression, so you want to make it count. By following these guidelines, you’ll enhance the attractiveness of your property and reduce the time it takes to generate serious offers.
First Impressions
How your property appears from the outside is important. To make a good first impression on a buyer, a clean driveway, a freshly mown lawn or a trimmed hedge will work wonders.
Do a critical inspection of the exterior of your property, paying special attention to the condition of your windows, shutters, screens and gutters. One of the first things a buyer will notice is the need for painting. If your property looks like it needs painting, many buyers will form an unfavorable impression. Elsewhere, little things count. Make sure the front door is spotless, including the doorknob, and that the windows gleam.
Cleanliness Counts
Once inside your property, one of the key factors that influences its appeal to a buyer is cleanliness. Most important is front hallway, the kitchen and the bathrooms. Do a room-by-room cleaning, and don’t forget any out-of-sight areas because that’s often where a discriminating buyer will look first.
The state of the carpets can also be a determining factor. At the very least, have your carpets cleaned, and if they are worn, it’s wise to replace them, or remove them if there is hardwood underneath.
Less is More
Clutter makes a poor impression. In closets, cabinets, kitchen countertops and other storage areas like basements, remove anything not needed for daily housekeeping. To make each room in your property look larger, get rid of or donate unnecessary furniture. Walk through your property and think: “Less is more.”
Repairs
Make sure everything is in good working order. Dripping faucets, squeaky steps and loose doorknobs can easily create a bad impression and reduce the value of your property. A few hours spent on repairs, whether by yourself or a tradesman, can pay big dividends when an offer is made.
Little Things Count
It’s easy to improve the appearance of any room. You may want to replace worn rugs or small pillows, put new towels in the bathroom or brighten up a room with a vase of flowers.
Pull Together
Get all the members of your household to pull together when it comes to getting – and keeping – your property ready to view. By getting everyone into the habit of spending a few minutes tidying up every morning for an afternoon showing, you improve your chances considerably.
The Importance of Pricing
This chart highlights the importance of pricing correctly at market value.
This graph illustrates the importance of pricing correctly. The centerline represents market value. As you move above this market value, you attract much smaller percentage of prospective buyers, greatly reducing your chances of a sale. Conversely, as you move below market value, you attract a much larger percentage of potential buyers.
Receive Market Value Updates
Customized to your neighborhood
When setting a price for your property, the listing level must strike a balance between the seller’s need to achieve the best-possible return and the buyer’s need to get good value. With many years of experience, a professional Real Estate Agent can help you set a price that will accomplish both objectives.
Establishing market value
The market value of your property is determined in exactly the same way as any other commodity – what a buyer is willing to pay for it in today’s market. Despite the price you paid originally, or the value of any improvements you may have made, the value is determined by market forces.
Look at the competition
Buyers look at about a dozen properties on average before making an offer on a property. As a result, they have a good overview of the market and will compare your property against the competition. If it’s not in line with similar properties that are available, buyers won’t consider it good value for money.
The Pitfalls of Overpricing
This chart highlights the importance of pricing correctly at market value.
Overpricing your house in the belief that you can reduce the price back later is a strategy that can backfire badly. For example, by the time you reduce your price, you may miss out on a surge of interest in properties like yours. Also, if prices are lowered, buyers may wonder if there’s something wrong with the property that kept other buyers away. So to keep from selling your property at below market value and from wasting valuable time, don’t fall into the overpricing trap
Thought I’d send a quick note to share some strategies that will help you get the best offer on your home.
Check out this recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) study.
It shows that by staging your home, not only does it make it easier for buyers to visualize the property as their own, it can also increase offer amounts and decrease the time on market.
The good news is that home staging doesn’t have to be expensive or overly time consuming.
Here’s three simple staging strategies I highly recommend before listing your property.
Help people imagine your home as theirs. Declutter rooms, remove personal effects like family photos, thin out bookshelves and remove all but one or two accent pieces. Remember that serious buyers will also open every closet and cupboard so make sure you clear them out as much as possible so buyers can visualize how they would take advantage of the storage.
Focus on the high impact rooms. In the same survey above, the Living Room, Master Bedroom and Kitchen (in that order) are cited as the three most important rooms to stage. So, to get the best value for your time and effort - focus on these rooms first.
Add mirrors if you need more light, group furniture together to make rooms look more spacious and highlight signature spaces (like a reading nook or large window) to give the room more character.
Take the time to clean and fix the little stuff. Small signs of neglect can become unneeded distractions for buyers and result in a lower offer. Why take the chance?
Make a list and fix that dripping bathroom faucet, clean the grime out of the shower and tighten loose cabinet doors.
I’m confident that if you follow the advice above, it will boost the appeal of your home and help attract higher offers!
Contact Now for easy market updates direct to your email.
Customized to your neighborhood
- marketing tools:
- Home Staging
- A unique listing web address (ex. 123MainStreet.com)
- Dedicated property-specific webpage or website
- Professional video
- Professional photography
- Virtual tour
- 2-D rendering floorplan
- 360° 3-D walkthru tour
- Arial photography or arial drone photography
Probate need to sell Las Vegas house
As a widower, I understand this must be a doubly difficult time for you, since you've been charged with the responsibility of handling probate.
Are you trying to deal with the probate of your loved one's Las Vegas estate while residing in a distant city?
Tending to paperwork long-distance is not too difficult, but getting the house on the market is another matter. Not only do you need a current market value you can trust, the house needs to be made ready, and that's "hands-on" work you can't do from afar.
Perhaps you can take a few weeks from your normal routine and come here to tend to things. But if you can't, please accept my offer of assistance.
How can I help?
First I'll furnish you with an accurate broker price opinion, based on recently sold homes that are similar in size, amenities, location and condition. You'll need that whether or not you intend to sell.
Knowing that true market value can be important for many reasons. Inheritance tax is one reason – and if you need to sell the property to settle the estate, getting it sold in a timely manner is another. Over-priced homes sit on the market too long, while under-pricing takes money out of your pocket.
I'll be happy to provide the broker price opinion you need – and to update it later if necessary.
This is a difficult time. None of us can help ease your pain of losing a loved one, but we can make getting through the legal and financial aspects less painful.
Just call – I'll be pleased to help.
Next, I'll put you in touch with professionals who can relieve you of the burden of removing household goods and disposing of them either via an estate sale or a donation to the non-profit of your choice.
After that, I can furnish you with a list of cleaning services, fix-up and repair professionals, and even stagers who will put the house in top selling condition. If you plan to sell, I'll furnish an updated price opinion at the time of listing.
Finally, I'll give you a list of maintenance professionals who will keep the house in show-ready condition until it's sold.
And…should you choose me as your listing agent, I'll also oversee those activities on your behalf.
Just give me a call. I'll be happy to explain the comprehensive real estate services available to you as you face the challenges of long-distance probate.
Before you think about selling your condo or townhome, you must find out if your complex is certified if you want the maximum number of buyers qualified to purchase your unit.
HUD certification for Condo and Townhomes
Why home buyers need to know this and Buyer agents need to understand this before putting an offer on a condo or townhome project.
Why current condo & townhome owners thinking about selling need to understand how this affects their property values. The more qualified buyers, equals more demand side and higher selling prices.
Increase the number of Buyers qualified to purchase Condos, Townhomes and Planned Unit Developments by having the projects HUD certified. For a buyer to use a conventional loan to purchase a condo or townhome, the project needs a HUD certification.
The most common loans used to purchase residential homes are the Conventional or FHA loans. These loans are sold on the secondary market to free up capital for the lender to continue making more loans. In order for these loans to be sold on the secondary market, they need to meet a minimum standard of criteria: minimum FICO scores, LTV- down payment from borrower, DTI debt to income ratio are some.
And then there is the criteria for the collateral securing the loan: the property. The appraisal requirements help verify the value of the property. But when it comes to multi-unit projects like condos and townhomes, there is an additional requirements: The Condo Certification which basically verifies the project meets some minimum risk guidelines: Minimum # of units completed and number of units owner occupied are two of those important criteria to qualify for HUD certification.
https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/ins/sfh_ins_condominiums
“For project approval or recertification, eligible projects must be complete and exist in full compliance with applicable state law requirements including good standing with the state, and with all other applicable laws and regulations. The condominium project also must meet the approval requirements established by HUD through the SF Handbook 4000.1, including insurance coverage, financial condition, nature of title, the existence of any pending legal action or physical property condition, and other factors that may affect the viability or marketability of the project or its units.”
The developer will usually go through the process of getting their project HUD certified as they sell out 50% of the project. It’s the smart thing to do as it increases the number of buyers qualified to purchase homes in the project. By increasing the demand, the home values increase and are more stable.
After the market collapse from 2006-2009, with many projects having high vacancies, the condo certifications were set to expire in December 2010. Over the years agents, home buyers and condo sellers learned the hard way by having deals fall out of escrow right before closing because this underwriting condition could not be met. Agents and loan officers scrambled to save the transaction but it was too late in the process for many.
Different loan programs have different requirements, so some deals were saved but ultimately it should be researched before listing a condo for sale or making an offer on one of these homes. With 24+ years of experience in lending and working through multiple real estate cycles, I have seen lending guidelines from relaxed to very tight to go over all the different scenarios on how to address this issue with general information. There is a site that lists which condo projects have their HUD condo certification but I have experienced that is not always consistent with ultimately which wholesale lender will approve the final funding of the loan. Different wholesale lenders have different internal guidelines that overlay the conforming guidelines, so each project and borrower needs to be looked at on a case by case situation. Other ‘portfolio’ lenders have different guidelines and balance the decision with how many loans are on their books.
If you are about to list a house for sale in Las Vegas, representing a buyer or getting pre-approved for a loan, reach out to me to go over this for the specifics for each individual transaction.
1. Make appointment with seller for
listing presentation
2. Send seller a written or e-mail
confirmation of listing appointment
and call to confirm
3. Review pre-appointment questions
4. Research all comparable currently
listed properties
5. Research sales activity from Local
MLS Broker Marketplaces and public
records databases
6. Research Average Days on Market
for property of this type, price range,
and location
7. Download and review property tax
roll/assessor information
8. Prepare preliminary Comparable
Market Analysis (CMA) to establish
fair market value
9. Obtain copy of subdivision plat/
complex lay-out
10. Research property’s ownership
and deed type
11. Research property’s public
record information for lot size
and dimensions
12. Research and verify legal description
13. Research property’s land use
coding and deed restrictions
14. Research property’s current use
and zoning
15. Verify legal names of owner(s) in
county’s public property records
16. Prepare listing presentation
package with above materials
17. Perform exterior Curb Appeal
Assessment of subject property
18. Compile a formal file on property
19. Confirm current public schools
and explain impact of schools on
market value
20. Review listing appointment
checklist to ensure all steps and
actions are completed
21. Review Obsolete Property
Rehabilitation Act (OPRA)
Report from Township for all
permitted records
22. Add client into your database
23. Give seller an overview of current
market conditions and projections
24. Tour property
25. Review agent’s and company’s
credentials and accomplishments
in the market
26. Present company’s profile and
position or niche in the marketplace
27. Present preliminary CMA to seller,
including comparable properties,
sold properties, current listings, and
expired listings
28. Offer pricing strategy with updates
to CMA based on tour of home and
updates, upgrades professional
judgment, and current market
conditions
29. Discuss goals with seller to
market effectively
30. Explain market power and benefits
of Local MLS Broker Marketplaces
31. Explain market power of web
marketing, IDX and REALTOR.com
32. Explain the work you do behind
the scenes and your availability
on weekends
33. Explain role in screening for qualified
buyers and protect seller from
curiosity seekers
34. Present and discuss strategic master
marketing plan
35. Explain transaction/agency
brokerage relationship
36. Review and explain all clauses in
listing contract and addendum,
then obtain seller’s signature once
property is under listing agreement
37. Review current title information
38. Gather square footage/measure
overall and heated square footage
as required
39. Measure interior room sizes
40. Confirm lot size via owner’s copy
of certified survey, if available
41. Note all unrecorded property liens,
agreements, easements
42. Obtain house plans, if applicable
and available
43. Review house plans and make copy
44. Prepare showing instructions for
buyers’ agents and showing times
with seller
45. Discuss possible buyer financing
alternatives and options with seller
46. Review current appraisal if available
47. Identify Homeowner Association
manager if applicable
48. Verify Homeowner Association Fees
with manager—mandatory
or optional, plus fees
49. Order copy of Homeowner
Association bylaws, if applicable
50. Research electricity availability,
supplier’s name, and phone number
51. Have utility companies provide
average utility usage from last 12
months of bills
52. Research and verify city sewer/septic
tank system
53. Calculate average water fees or
rates from last 12 months of bills
54. Confirm well status, depth and
output from Well Report
55. Natural Gas: Research/verify
availability, supplier’s name, and
phone number
56. Verify security system, current
terms of service and whether
owned or leased
57. Verify if seller has transferable
Termite Bond
58. Ascertain need for lead-based
paint disclosure
59. Prepare detailed list of property
amenities and assess market impact
60. Prepare detailed list of property’s
inclusions and conveyances with sale
61. Compile list of completed repairs
and maintenance items
62. Send vacancy checklist to seller if
property is vacant and register the
property with the township if it is
vacant or a rental home
63. Explain benefits of Homeowner
Warranty to seller
64. Assist sellers with completion and
submission of Homeowner Warranty
Application
65. Place Homeowner Warranty in
property file for conveyance at
time of sale
66. Have extra key made for lockbox
and one for your file
67. Verify if property has rental
units involved.
68. If the property does have rental units,
make copies of all leases for retention
in listing file
69. Verify all rents and deposits
70. Inform tenants of listing and discuss
how showings will be handled
71. Arrange for installation of yard sign
72. Complete new listing checklist
73. Review curb appeal assessment
and provide suggestions to improve
saleability
74. Review interior décor assessment
and suggest changes to shorten
time on market
75. Load listing into transaction
management software program
76. Prepare Local MLS Broker
Marketplaces Profile Sheet
77. Enter property data from Profile
Sheet into Local MLS Broker
Marketplaces Database
78. Proofread Local MLS Broker
Marketplaces database listing
for accuracy— including proper
placement in map
79. Add property to company’s active
listings list
80. Provide seller copies of the listing
agreement and Local MLS Broker
Marketplaces Profile Sheet within
48 hours or within the time period
of Local MLS Broker Marketplace
guidelines
81. Take additional photos for upload
into Local MLS Broker Marketplaces
and use in fliers
82. Create print and internet ads with
seller’s input
83. Coordinate showings with owners,
tenants, and other agents.
LISTING APPOINTMENT
PRESENTATION (CONTINUED)
84. Return all calls
85. Install electronic lock box if
authorized. Program agreed-to
showing times
86. Prepare mailing and contact list
87. Generate mail-merge letters to
contact list
88. Order Just Listed labels and reports
89. Prepare fliers and feedback reports
90. Review comparable Local MLS Broker
Marketplaces regularly to ensure
property remains competitive
91. Prepare property marketing
brochure for seller’s review
92. Arrange for printing or copying
of marketing brochures or fliers
93. Place marketing brochures in all
company agent mailboxes
94. Upload listing to company and
agent Internet site, if applicable
95. Mail out Just Listed notice to all
neighborhood residents
96. Advise network referral program
of listing
97. Provide marketing data to buyers
through international relocation
network buyers
98. Provide marketing data to buyers
coming from referral network
99. Provide Special Feature cards for
marketing, if applicable
100. Submit ads to company’s
participating internet real estate sites
101. Price changes conveyed promptly to
all internet groups
102. Reprint/supply brochures promptly
as needed
103. Feedback e-mails sent to buyers’
agents after showings
104. Review weekly market study
LISTING APPOINTMENT
PRESENTATION (CONTINUED)
105. Discuss with sellers any feedback
from showings to determine if
changes are needed
106. Set up marketing reports on
showing-time application and
company website
107. Place regular weekly update calls
to seller to discuss marketing and
pricing
108. Promptly enter price changes in
the Local MLS Broker Marketplaces
Database
109. Receive and review all Offer to
Purchase contracts submitted by
buyers’ agents.
110. Evaluate offer(s) and prepare a net
sheet for the owner for comparison
purposes
111. Explain merits and weakness of
each offer to sellers
112. Contact buyers’ agents to
review buyer’s qualifications
and discuss offer
113. Deliver Seller’s Disclosure to buyer
upon request and prior to offer if
possible. Upload to the Local MLS
Broker Marketplaces additional
documents at time of listing
114. Confirm buyer is pre-qualified by
calling loan officer
121. Record and promptly deposit buyer’s
earnest money in escrow account
122. Disseminate under-contract showing
restrictions as seller requests
123. Deliver copies of fully signed
Offer to Purchase contract to seller
124. Deliver copies of Offer to Purchase
contract to lender
125. Provide copies of signed Offer to
Purchase contract for office file
126. Advise seller of additional offers
submitted between contract and
closing
115. Obtain buyers’ pre-qualification letter
from loan officer if not submitted
with offer
116. Negotiate all offers per seller’s
direction on seller’s behalf, set time
limit for loan approval and closing
117. Prepare and convey counteroffers,
acceptance or amendments to
buyer’s agent
118. Create excel spreadsheets for easy
review on multiple bids
119. Email or send copies of contract
and all addendums to the closing
attorney or title company
120. When Offer to Purchase contract is
accepted, deliver to buyer’s agent
127. Change status in Local MLS Broker
Marketplaces to Sale Pending
128. Update transaction management
program to show Sale Pending
129. Provide credit report information
to seller if property will be seller-
financed
130. Assist buyer with obtaining
financing, if applicable, and
follow-up as necessary
131. Coordinate with lender on discount
points being locked in with dates
8
INSPECTIONS
132. Deliver unrecorded property information to buyer
133. Order septic system inspection, if applicable
134. Receive and review septic system report, and assess any possible impact on sale
135. Deliver copy of septic system inspection report lender and buyer
136. Deliver Well Flow Test Report copies to lender and buyer, and property listing file
137. Verify termite inspection ordered
138. Verify mold inspection ordered, if required
139. Confirm verifications of deposit and buyer’s employment have been returned
140. Follow loan processing through to the underwriter
141. Add lender and other vendors to your management program so agents, buyer,
and seller can track progress of sale
142. Contact lender weekly to ensure processing is on track
143. Relay final approval of buyer’s loan application to seller
144. Coordinate with seller for buyer’s
professional home inspection
145. Review home inspector’s report
146. Enter completion into transaction
management tracking program
147. Explain seller’s responsibilities, and
recommend an attorney interpret
any clauses in the contract
148. Ensure seller’s compliance
with Home Inspection Clause
requirements
149. Assist seller with identifying
contractors to perform any
required repairs
150. Negotiate payment, and oversee all
required repairs on seller’s behalf,
if needed
151. Schedule appraisal
152. Provide to appraiser any comparable
sales used in market pricing
153. Follow-up on appraisal
154. Enter completion into transaction
management program
155. Assist seller in questioning appraisal
report if it seems too low
156. Get contract signed by all parties
157. Coordinate closing process with
buyer’s agent and lender
158. Update closing forms and files
159. Ensure all parties have all forms and
information needed to close the sale
160. Select location where closing will
be held
161. Confirm closing date and time, and
notify all parties
162. Assist in solving any title problems
or in obtaining death certificates
163. Work with buyer’s agent in
scheduling buyer’s final walk-thru
prior to closing
164. Double check all tax, homeowners’
association dues, utility, and
applicable prorations
165. Request final closing figures from
closing agent (attorney or title
company)
PROCESSING
FOR CLOSING
166. Receive and carefully review closing
figures to ensure accuracy
of preparation
167. Confirm buyer and buyer’s agent
have received title insurance
commitment
168. Provide homeowners warranty
for availability at closing
169. Forward closing documents to
absentee seller as requested
170. Review documents with closing
agent (attorney)
171. Coordinate closing with seller’s next
purchase, and resolve any timing
problems
172. Have a no-surprises closing so seller
receives a net-proceeds check at
closing
173. Refer sellers to one of the best agents
at their destination, if applicable
174. Change Local MLS Broker
Marketplaces status to Sold. Enter
sale date, price, selling broker, etc.
175. Share the warranty paperwork for claims in the future
176. Attempt to clarify and resolve any conflicts about repairs if buyer is not satisfied
177. Respond to any calls and provide any information required from office files
178. If a rental, verify all deposits and prorated rents are reflected accurately on the
closing statement
179. Close out listing in your management program