• Prepare CMA to establish fair market value
• Prepare and sign listing contract
• Place 'For Sale' sign on property
• Place lock box on property, if needed
• Notify the Top area Agents of this new listing
• Inspect Vacant Listing on a regular basis
• Follow up on all showings
• Phone all potential buyers with details of listing
• Hold open houses
• Arrange showings for other agents
• Contact you regularly with verbal progress reports
• Prepare and deliver Marketing Service report to owner
• Review marketing activities with owner
• Prequalify potential buyers
• Present and discuss all offers on property with owner
• Negotiate the transaction with other agent
• Finalize the sales contract
• Confirm that all contingencies on sales contract are completed Finalize the closing
• Arrange for relocation agent, if required

With buyers, first impressions count. A small investment in time and money will give your home an edge over other listings in the area when the time comes to show it to a prospective buyer. Here are some suggestions that will help you to get top market value:

General Maintenance Oil squeaky doors Tighten doorknobs Replace burned out lights Clean and repair windows Touch up chipped paint Repair cracked plaster Repair leaking taps and toilets Spic and Span Shampoo carpets Clean washer, dryer, and tubs Clean furnace Clean fridge and stove Clean and freshen bathrooms The First Impression Clean and tidy entrance Functional doorbell Polish door hardware

Curb Appeal Cut lawns Trim shrubs and lawns Weed and edge gardens Pick up any litter Clear walk and driveway of leaves Repair gutters and eaves Touch up exterior paint The Buying Atmosphere Be absent during showings Turn on all lights Light fireplace Open drapes in the day time Play quiet background music Keep pets outdoors The Spacious Look Clear stairs and halls Store excess furniture Clear counters and stove Make closets neat and tidy