Selling a home is one of the biggest financial and personal decisions most people make. Whether you’ve lived in your home for decades or just a few years, the process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. My goal is to help Snohomish County homeowners understand exactly what to expect from start to finish so they can feel confident, prepared, and supported every step of the way.
Step One: Self-Discovery
Before making the decision to sell, take some time to ask yourself the important questions:
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How quickly do we need to sell?
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What does success look like for us?
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What did we like or dislike about our last selling experience?
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Why are we selling?
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What is our plan if the home doesn’t sell right away?
Having clarity on your motivations and expectations will guide the entire process and make conversations with your agent more productive.
Step Two: Listing Consultation (Part One)
Your first meeting with a realtor is typically a walk-through of the home. This is your chance to share details about the property, highlight improvements, and discuss any potential projects you’re considering before listing.
An experienced realtor will provide insight on:
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Which updates will have the biggest impact on resale value.
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Which improvements may not deliver a return in your specific market.
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Trusted contractors and service providers to make preparation easier.
Step Three: Listing Consultation (Part Two)
A few days later, your realtor will return with a comprehensive market analysis and full marketing plan. During this meeting, you’ll review comparable sales, current market conditions, and discuss pricing strategies. You’ll also walk through the A-to-Z selling process so you know exactly what to expect.
Step Four: Paperwork
Once you’ve chosen the realtor you trust, you’ll sign the necessary paperwork to establish representation and prepare your listing for the MLS. This is also the time to have transparent conversations about expenses, commission, and what services are covered by your agent.
Step Five: Listing Preparation
This stage is all about getting your home market-ready. Fresh paint, new carpet, landscaping touch-ups, and minor repairs can make a world of difference in how your property shows. First impressions matter—so launching your listing in its best condition is key to attracting strong buyers right away.
Step Six: Marketing
Professional marketing is what makes your home stand out. This often includes:
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Professional interior and exterior photography (including drone shots).
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A full video tour of your home.
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Printed brochures, flyers, and feature sheets.
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Targeted social media campaigns.
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YouTube and digital advertising.
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Direct mail and neighborhood postcards.
The goal is simple: create maximum exposure to get your home in front of the right buyers.
Step Seven: Listing Launch Day
This is when your home officially goes live on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and all major real estate websites. Simultaneously, your agent will begin executing the marketing campaigns to generate immediate attention and interest.
Step Eight: Showings & Open Houses
Buyers will schedule private tours through an app like ShowingTime, which alerts you by text so you can approve times that work best. In addition, your agent may host open houses, giving buyers an opportunity to view your home in a welcoming, professional setting.
Step Nine: Negotiations
When an interested buyer submits an offer, your agent will walk you through every detail of the contract. Together, you’ll decide whether to accept, decline, or counteroffer. Once both parties reach an agreement and sign, the home is officially under contract.
Step Ten: Under Contract
From inspections to appraisals, this stage comes with important deadlines and contingencies. A great agent will keep you informed and on track so nothing slips through the cracks.
Step Eleven: Signing with Escrow
A day or two before closing, escrow will arrange for you to sign the final paperwork. This can be done in person at a local escrow office or through a mobile notary. If you’ll be out of town, arrangements can be made ahead of time.
Step Twelve: Closing Day
Once escrow receives the buyer’s funds and the county records the sale, the transaction is complete! At this point, keys are exchanged, the buyer can move in, and you’ll typically receive your proceeds within 24–48 hours.
Final Thoughts
Every home sale is unique, with its own set of circumstances, negotiations, and nuances. Having a trusted, local realtor by your side makes all the difference.
If you’re considering selling your Snohomish County home—or simply want to better understand your options—I’d love to be a resource for you. Reach out today to set up a consultation.
