A Step-By-Step Guide
Learn the basics of listing your house for sale in Kitsap County, WA.
#1 Identify your motivation for selling.
Why are you selling? Do you need to sell very quickly in order to move into your next home? Or is it more important to get top dollar for your house? When do you plan on moving out? These and other questions will help inform your listing strategy.
#2 Hire a trusted real estate agent.
My modern approach leverages social advertising and technology to sell your home faster, and for top dollar. And I work harder to provide amazing service for my clients. Ask me for a detailed estimate of your expenses and net proceeds (profit)!
#3 Develop a listing strategy and marketing plan.
Your agent guides you through competitive pricing, and helps you make decisions — about open houses, disclosure forms, offer review dates, pre-inspections, showings, and more. And you'll receive a detailed marketing plan for promoting the listing.
#4 Complete any basic home maintenance tasks.
If you are able to, fix loose hinges, stuck drawers, cracked windows, clogged drains, worn caulk, etc. Repaint brightly-colored rooms with neutral palettes, and touch up scuffed walls. Trim overgrown hedges, mow the lawn, and clean the exterior doors and windows.
#5 Deep clean, declutter, and stage the home.
A spotless house makes the best first impression. Professional deep cleaning may be in order. Move non-essential items out of your home, if possible, leaving some furniture and neutral decor. You want buyers to envision themselves living there.
#6 Launch the MLS listing and begin buyer showings.
High-quality professional photography and compelling descriptions are crucial. Other options include virtual tours, video footage, drone photography, and brochures. Social media and digital advertising promotions start immediately to encourage showings.
#7 Review offers and negotiate a sale contract.
Receiving an offer is exciting! But you may need to negotiate a bit in order to get under contract. Evaluate all the terms, including price, closing and possession dates, earnest money, lender/financing, items conveyed, and sale contingencies/addendums.
#8 Fulfill all contract obligations during escrow.
An escrow agent holds the buyer’s funds until all contract conditions are satisfied. You might need to negotiate repairs after an inspection, and allow access for the buyer's appraisal. Escrow will also run a title report and prorate utility payments.
#9 Pack up and move out of your home.
Schedule your move in advance, and sell or donate any items you don't need to take with you. Movers can be pricey and packing takes time, so don't wait until the last minute. You'll also cancel your utilities and home insurance on closing day.
#10 Close escrow, transfer keys, and get paid.
You'll sign closing paperwork prior to closing day, and review a settlement statement. Once the buyer's funds have cleared and the county has recorded the sale, you'll hand over the keys and and receive funds shortly after. Congratulations, you sold your house!
Selling a Home in Kitsap County
Kitsap County is a seller’s market.
Easier for Buyers
Easier for Sellers
Market Balanced
Market Seller's
Market