Mark Meers at Spring Realty Logo

Home Selling Process in Shorewood, IL

For over 26 years, I have helped residents navigate the real estate market. I have a proven track record of getting great results for my clients. Each property is unique and requires a custom approach to highlight the best features. I position the property in the best way possible based on my knowledge of the local market and focus on online and local marketing.

Mark Meers, the founder of Spring Reality, offering services.

1. Search – Find a Real Estate Agent

I know the home selling can be emotional and stressful experience and finding an agent that is tuned to your needs is extremely important. I will uncover your motivation for selling, establish a timeline and create a marketing plan, and see how your home compares with others on the market.

Realtor calculating the value of a home for sale.

2. Value – Learn Your Home’s Market Value

I will determine the home’s market value, taking into consideration such variables as features, size, location, school district, market demand, and recent sales history. I will share with you a comparative market analysis (CMA), that will help us establish a list price that will attract buyers and drive maximum interest to your property.

A red for-sale board outside a beautiful home.

3. List – List Your Home

Signing listing agreement. Listing agreement gives me permission to advertise and handle the sale of your home. It also covers the basic terms of our mutual commitment, including the length of time the home will be listed. We will also discuss the selling strategy and what to expect next as we dive deeper into the process.

Client shaking hands with a realtor after a successful purchase.

4. Market – Market Your Home

Customize the marketing plan for the home. I will combine the industry technology and robust online marketing strategy with tried-and-true techniques like professional photos, print and online advertising and open houses. I also maintain relationships with local buyer’s agents and alert them of upcoming listing. This expansive network combined with local expertise allows for a strong position and exposure to the market.

Home selling process completed by client and realtor.

5. Negotiate – Negotiate the Best Price

26 years of real estate negotiation will help us leverage every negotiation tool to help you make the best deal possible and arrive at the terms that both you and the buyer can agree upon. I will explain terms of the offer, it’s contingencies and buyer’s financing.

For-sale board with a 'Sold' sign stuck to it.

6. Finish – Seal the Deal

Closing date – the day you have been waiting for! I will be in a constant contact through the transaction steps, engaging with the buyer’s agent, attorney and lender to ensure inspections are performed, appraisal completed, financing approved on time, and all the necessary documents are provided. Then, sign on the dotted line, and congratulations! You have just sold your home.

Hand holding keys with house keychain in front of new home

How to Prepare Your Shorewood Home for Sale

Getting ready to sell my home starts well before the listing goes live. Walk through your house as though you are seeing it for the first time. What catches your eye? A crowded countertop or a front door that needs some attention can affect a buyer’s first impression. Start with the areas buyers see first. Clear kitchen counters and give closets enough breathing room to show their storage. Outside, trim overgrown plants and check the front entry and walkway. A clean entrance gives buyers a good first impression before they step inside.

Then look at the small maintenance jobs. Replace burned-out bulbs, tighten loose cabinet handles, repair torn window screens, and fix dripping faucets. You do not need to make your home perfect. You want buyers to see a home that has been cared for.

Hold off on major projects until you have talked with Spring Realty, Inc. A new kitchen or bathroom may sound like a smart investment, but the right real estate advice can help you decide which improvements are worth making before you list.

Photos matter, too. Once the house is clean and organized, rooms will photograph better and give prospective buyers a clearer idea of the space.

A good home selling process starts with a plan that fits your property and your goals. Taking care of the right things before listing can help you put your best foot forward in Shorewood, IL.

Ready to prepare your home for the market? Contact Spring Realty, Inc. to talk through your next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start preparing my home for sale?

Start several weeks before you plan to list. This gives you time to sort belongings and address anything that takes longer than expected. Starting early also leaves room to change plans without rushing.

Should I stay home during showings?

It is usually better to give buyers space to look around. People often speak more freely and spend more time considering a property when the homeowner is away. Pets should also be secured or removed during showings when possible.

Where should I put the furniture and belongings I want to keep?

A storage unit or off-site location can help reduce visual clutter. Avoid filling the garage or other storage areas so tightly that buyers cannot see how much usable space they offer.

What should I leave behind when I move?

Items attached to the property can create confusion if buyers expect them to remain.

Do I need to disclose problems with my home?

Illinois sellers have disclosure responsibilities that should be taken seriously. Discuss known property conditions with your real estate professional and carefully complete the required disclosure paperwork, rather than guessing what needs to be reported.

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