If you've decided to sell your home, chances are you're caught up in a host of emotions. You may be looking forward to moving up to a new dream house or facing the uncertainty of a major move across country. You may be reluctant to leave your memories behind or eager to start new adventures. Whatever turbulent feelings you’re experiencing right now, there are plenty of practical matters that need your attention. Keep in mind the following considerations to help the whole process go more smoothly.

* It's a good idea to place your home on the market as far in advance as possible of purchasing a new one. If you find a new home first and then try to sell your present home, you may find yourself with two mortgages.

Agent or No Agent???

Some homeowners decide to sell their homes themselves in order to save the commission charged by the real estate agent. The commission rate may vary depending on where you live or what agency you choose, but it is generally upwards of 5%.

However, handling your own sale means you will be responsible for placing ads, answering phones and showing your home to strangers. What's more, buyers who know you are saving on the agent’s commission may offer less for your home, wiping out the financial incentive to do it all yourself.

When considering selling your home yourself, you should realize that real estate agents probably know a lot more about the business of selling homes than you do.

Here are some of the advantages of Beach City Realty's professional realtor team:

• We will help you establish a fair asking price for your home.

• We will promote your home to other agents and list your property in multiple listing services. A multiple listing service is a computer database that all real estate agents who subscribe to the service can access. Your home will get exposure to all those agents, one of whom may have a perfect buyer.

• We will create, pay for and place advertising for you.

• We will schedule appointments to show your home to prospective buyers even when you are not there.

• We can weed out buyers who will not qualify for a mortgage.

• We will refer you sources for insurance, inspections, legal counsel and financing.

• We will help you negotiate with the buyer.

• We will make suggestions to help make your home more attractive to a potential buyer.

If you decide to List with us we will give you a $300 certificate for moving expenses to your new location after closing.

TIPS ON SELLING YOUR HOUSE:

It is the little things both positive and negative that can make a big difference to prospective buyers. Before you list your home, go through the house with a careful eye. Here are some helpful things to remember:

Outside:

• Sweep from walkway
• Remove newspapers, bikes and toys
• Park extra cars away from the property
• Trim back the shrubs
• Mow the lawn more frequently and plant flowers
• Apply fresh, clean paint throughout
• Clean windows and window coverings throughout
• keep pet area clean
• Keep plumbing and all appliances in working order
• Make sure roof and gutters are in good condition
• Fix any loose doorknobs, popped screen doors

Inside:

• Kitchen and bathroom should shine
• Maintain all sealant (window, tub, shower, sink, ETC) in good condition
• Quick once-over with the vacuum; carpets should be clean
• Place fresh flowers in the main rooms
• Hang a pretty plant from the skylight
• Put dishes away, unless setting a formal display for decoration
• Make beds and put all clothes away
• Enhance the spaciousness of each room
• Open drapes and increases wattage of light bulbs for brighter feel
• Straighten closets
• Put toys away
• Turn off television
• Play soft music on the radio/stereo
• Keep pets out of the way and pet areas clean and odor free
• Set out baskets of fresh potpourri
• Secure jewelry, cash, prescription medication and other valuables

Going the extra mile to showcase your house will pay significant dividends when it's time to show it to buyers. The less imagination people must bring with them when they look at your house, the easier it will be for your house to sell.