1. Choose an escrow and title insurance company. You may also want to have your home appraised.

2. Check for liens against your home...you want to make sure you are able to pay them off at or before closing.

3. Make flyers, post a sign, and advertise your property in the local newspaper. Marketing is essential in order to let potential buyers know your home is for sale.

4. Do the necessary repairs and cleaning in order to make your home look its best.

5. Make your home accessible to prospective buyers. Often, buyers will want to tour the inside of a home on the same day they see or hear about it.

6. Make sure potential buyers are pre-qualified by a lender. You do not want to take your home off the market just to find out your buyer was not able to get the financing.

7. Do your research! Pricing your home is probably the most important (and trickiest) part of the process. If you price it too low, you lose money. If it is priced too high, it will never sell.

8. If trying to sell your home yourself becomes too stressful, don’t feel bad about having to hire an agent. Most of the time, it is worth the money....but do be picky about who you hire!

1. Make sure the agent is licensed and is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). NAR members adhere to the highest ethical standards in real estate.

2. Choose an agent that makes you feel comfortable, respects your needs, and answers your questions.

3. Listen to the agent’s advice regarding how to competitively price your home in the current market...but ask questions if you feel uncomfortable with ANY part of the process.

4. Make it clear to the agent how much money you need to walk away with at closing.

5. Talk with your agent about any concerns you may have about others entering your home. You have options regarding how and when an agent can show your property.

6. Many potential buyers prefer to purchase a home with the help of an agent. It ensures that all steps are followed and legalities are taken care of.

7. A Realtor can estimate your net proceeds from the sale ahead of time. That way you will know approximately how much money you will walk away with.

8. An agent can market your property on a wide-reaching scale. When an agent lists your property, agents from all across the Northwest have instant internet access to pictures and information about your home via the Northwest Multiple Listing Service.