Complete Home Seller Checklist
A comprehensive guide to selling your home, from initial preparation through closing. Follow this timeline to ensure a smooth transaction.
State Requirements Vary
Disclosure requirements, attorney involvement, and closing procedures vary by state. This checklist provides general guidance—consult with local professionals for state-specific requirements.
Declutter and depersonalize
Remove personal items, excess furniture, and clutter to help buyers envision themselves in the space
Deep clean the entire home
Professional cleaning of carpets, windows, and all surfaces
Make necessary repairs
Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, cracked tiles, and other visible issues
Consider strategic updates
Fresh paint, updated fixtures, and curb appeal improvements often provide good ROI
Gather important documents
Deed, survey, utility bills, HOA documents, warranties, and improvement records
Get a pre-listing inspection (optional)
Identify issues before buyers find them; address or disclose appropriately
Interview real estate agents
Compare experience, marketing plans, commission rates, and local market knowledge
Review comparative market analysis (CMA)
Understand how your home compares to recent sales and current listings
Set a competitive listing price
Price based on data, not emotion; overpricing can extend days on market
Prepare for professional photography
Stage rooms, maximize lighting, and ensure everything is photo-ready
Write compelling listing description
Highlight key features, updates, and neighborhood benefits
Plan your showing schedule
Determine availability for showings and open houses
Keep home show-ready
Maintain cleanliness and be prepared for short-notice showings
Secure valuables and medications
Remove or lock away sensitive items during showings
Leave during showings
Buyers feel more comfortable viewing without owners present
Review showing feedback
Discuss feedback with your agent and adjust strategy if needed
Consider price adjustments
If no offers after 2-3 weeks, discuss pricing strategy with your agent
Review all offers carefully
Consider price, contingencies, closing timeline, and buyer qualifications
Verify buyer pre-approval
Ensure buyer has legitimate financing in place
Negotiate terms
Counter-offers on price, closing date, contingencies, or included items
Accept offer and sign contract
Once agreed, both parties sign the purchase agreement
Open escrow
Earnest money deposit is collected and escrow period begins
Accommodate buyer inspection
Allow access for home inspection; be prepared for repair requests
Negotiate inspection items
Respond to repair requests—repair, credit, or decline
Facilitate appraisal
Provide access for lender's appraiser; provide list of improvements
Complete required disclosures
Provide all state-required disclosure forms honestly and completely
Address any title issues
Work with title company to resolve any liens or encumbrances
Schedule utility transfers
Arrange for utilities to transfer to buyer at closing
Complete final walk-through
Buyer verifies property condition and agreed repairs
Review closing documents
Carefully review all documents before signing
Sign closing documents
Sign deed, closing disclosure, and other required documents
Hand over keys
Provide all keys, garage remotes, and access codes
Receive proceeds
Net proceeds are wired or issued by check
Educational Content
This content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Rules and regulations vary by state. Consult with a licensed professional in your area for specific guidance.