Listing Your Home

Listing broker vs. selling broker

A listing broker is hired by the seller through a listing agreement and is paid the listing commission. A selling broker produces the buyer and splits the commission — a 'co-operative' sale. If the listing broker also finds the buyer, they receive both sides.

A little homework

Before the appointment, you collect requested documents while your REALTOR® studies recent comparable sales and comparable homes currently for sale in your area.

Your home's special features

Your REALTOR® will inspect the home and yard to learn its floor plan and special features. Be ready to point out schools, churches, daycare, transit and community features, plus anything not readily apparent — from renovations to afternoon winter sunshine — since buyers are comparison shopping.

Property profile folder

To prepare a Highlight Sheet, gather documents such as a mortgage pay-off notice, septic/well inspection (if applicable), lender appraisal, assessments/easements, property tax or condo fee records, and the past 12 months of utility bills.

Helpful extras: the deed, house-location survey, condo bylaws or HOA documents, subdivision map, floor plan, previous title abstracts, legal description, warranties, and your home insurance policy.

What conveys?

Prepare a specific list of personal property included in the sale — e.g., draperies and rods, remaining heating oil, firewood, washer, dryer, fridge, stove, microwave, pool chemicals, awnings, storm doors/windows, screens, blinds, shutters, window A/C. Tag or remove anything that does not convey. Then the listing agreement is completed with a set listing period and signed.

Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

A CMA helps price your home to earn the highest possible price. Your REALTOR®: (1) reviews at least 3 recently sold comparable homes; (2) reviews at least 3 comparable homes currently listed; (3) reviews at least 3 that went unsold for 90+ days (the danger of overpricing); and (4) uses it all to arrive at your ideal asking price.