IN THIS TUTORIAL   Get the Most from Your Home Sale Polish the Merchandise Seller's Checklist: Inside Seller's Checklist: Outside Should You go it Alone? Hire a Pro Setting the Right Price Negotiating with Buyers Key Elements of the Contract Preparing for Settlement The Papers You'll Need

HOME SELLING
Get the Most from Your Home Sale

To get the most out of your home sale you'll need to do your homework, and work around your home.

In this tutorial we'll walk you through the steps to a successful sale -- from maximizing curb appeal to ensuring a smooth settlement.

• Polish the merchandise
  There's no second chance to make a good first impression. Here's how to put a fresh face on the ol' homestead.
  
  
• Seller's Checklist: Inside
  Print out this checklist to identify areas inside your home that need work prior to putting it on the market.
  
  
• Seller's Checklist: Outside
  Use this checklist to help inspect your house from roof to foundation.
  
  
• Should You go it Alone?
  If you live in a hot market, you may not have to pay an agent thousands of dollars to sell your house.
  
  
• Hire a Pro
  If you'd rather not spend the time or the effort selling the place yourself, here's how to find the best agent for you.
  
  
• Setting the Right Price
  Don't overprice or you'll scare away prospective buyers.
  
  
• Negotiating with Buyers
  Here's what to look for when the offers come rolling in.
  
  
• Key Elements of the Contract
  Before accepting a buyer's purchase agreement, be sure you review these key areas.
  
  
• Preparing for Settlement
  Most of the hard work is done by the buyer, but you'll still need to ride herd on the agents, lawyers and title clerks.
  
  
• The Papers You'll Need
  If you're selling your home yourself, here's what you'll need to take with you to the closing.
  

Polish the Merchandise