Here at Baja Realty Executives, we work really hard to exceed your expectations. Many times, I am asked, “So, what exactly is it that you do when you list my home?” You’d be surprised at just how much work is involved with marketing your home effectively, negotiating offers, and finally getting you to the closing table effortlessly and with as much money in your pocket as possible.
Pre-Listing Activities
- Make an appointment with the seller for listing presentation
- Send seller a written or e-mail confirmation of listing appointment and call to confirm
- Review pre-appointment questions
- Research all comparable currently listed properties
- Research sales activity from MLS and public records databases
- Research “Average Days on Market” for the similar property type
- Download and review property tax roll information
- Prepare “Comparable Market Analysis” (CMA) to establish the fair market value
- Research property’s ownership & deed type
- Research and verify legal description
- Research property’s current use and zoning
- Verify legal names of owner(s) in county’s public property record
- Prepare listing presentation package with above materials
- Compile and assemble the formal file on the property
- Confirm current public schools and explain the impact of schools on the market value
- Review listing appointment checklist to ensure all steps and actions have been completed
Listing Appointment Presentation
- Give seller an overview of current market conditions and projections
- Present CMA results To the seller, including comparable’s, sold’s, current listings & expired listings
- Offer pricing strategy based on professional judgment and interpretation of current market conditions
- Discuss goals with the seller to market effectively
- Explain market power and benefits of Multiple Listing Service
- Explain agent’s role in taking all calls to screen for qualified buyers and protect the seller from curiosity seekers
- Present and discuss unique and strategic master marketing plan
- Explain different agency relationships and determine seller’s preference
- Review and explain all clauses in Listing Contract & Addendum and obtain seller’s signature
Once Property is under Listing Agreement
- Review current title information
- Measure overall and heated square footage
- Measure interior room sizes
- Note any and all unrecorded property lines, agreements, easements
- Obtain house plans, if applicable and available
- Review house plans and make a copy
- Prepare showing instructions for buyers’ agents and agree on showing time window with the seller
- Obtain current mortgage loan(s) information: companies and & loan account numbers
- Verify current loan information with the lender(s)
- Check assumability of the loan(s) and any special requirements
- Discuss possible buyer financing alternatives and options with seller
- Review the current appraisal, if available
- Identify Home Owner Association manager, if applicable
- Verify Home Owner Association Fees: mandatory or optional and current annual fee
- Order copy of Homeowner Association bylaws, if applicable
- Research electricity availability and supplier’s name and phone number
- Calculate average utility usage from last 12 months of bills
- Research and verify city sewer/septic tank system
- Water System: Calculate average water fees or rates from last 12 months of bills
- Verify security system, the current term of service and whether owned or leased
- Prepare a detailed list of property amenities and assess market impact
- Prepare a detailed list of property’s “Exclusions” from sale
- Compile a list of completed repairs and maintenance items
- Verify if the property has rental units involved. And if so: * Make copies of all leases for retention in listing file, * Verify all rents & deposits, * Inform tenants of listing and discuss how showings will be handled
- Arrange for installation of property sign
- ”New Listing Checklist” Completed
- Review results of Curb Appeal Assessment with the seller and provide suggestions to improve the saleability
- Review results of Interior Décor Assessment and suggest changes to shorten time on market
- Proofread MLS database listing for accuracy – including proper placement in mapping functions
- Add the property to company’s Active Listings list
Marketing The Listing
- Coordinate showings with owners, tenants, and other realtors.
- Return calls promptly, (weekends included)
- Prepare mailing and contact list
- Review comparable MLS listings regularly to ensure property remains competitive in price, terms, condition, and availability
- Price changes conveyed promptly to all Internet groups
- Reprint/supply brochures promptly as needed
- Share feedback received from buyers’ agents after showings
- Engage as many internet sites and social media outlets with the listing
- Network with our vast number of colleagues and associates about listing
- Holding Open Houses, if the seller agrees