FOR SALE. The first step in selling real estate is to list the property for sale. A Seller may list the property for sale by owner or choose the assistance of a realtor. If a realtor is used, the realtor will take care of getting the property put into the local real estate listing books, online sites, etc. The realtor will also
SHOWINGS. The property will be shown to potential buyers on one or more occasions. An "open house" is a time usually on Sundays from 2:00 P.M. - 4:00 P.M. At the showings the potential Buyers assess the property so the Seller must "prepare" the property to allow Potential Buyers to see themselves living in the house.
PURCHASE AGREEMENT. The first step in purchase a property is to make an "offer." An offer is usually made on the property through a Contract for Purchase and Sale (referred to as the contract). After negotiations have resulted in an agreed upon purchase price and all contract requirements, the Buyer and Seller begin to fulfill their respective requirements under the contract.
PURCHASE. Once the Buyer and the Seller have fulfilled their respective contract requirements, the purchase will be finalized in a closing at a title company. The closing is where the Seller formally turns over the property to the Buyer by handing over the keys (and garage door openers) and signing the deed to the property. Complete information about closings are located on the closing page.
REALTOR
The decision to have a realtor assist you in the sale or purchase of a home is a choice both Sellers and Buyers must make. A Realtor has very different roles when representing a Buyer versus representing a Seller.