You’ve thought about selling, found out what your home is worth, and tackled those pre-listing projects. Now you’re ready for the big moment — putting your home on the market.
But what really happens after you list? Here’s a quick look at what to expect once your home goes live — and how the process unfolds from “For Sale” to “Sold.”
Step 1: Your Home Goes Live
Once your listing hits the MLS, it doesn’t just sit there. It gets pushed out across hundreds of real estate websites — including Zillow, Realtor.com, and my own ERA Martin Associates site.
Professional photos, a great description, and strong local marketing all work together to get your home noticed right away.
Your home’s first impression window is short — usually the first 10–14 days — and that’s when serious buyers are watching.
Step 2: Showings and Feedback
Next come the showings. This is where your preparation pays off — clean spaces, great lighting, and that “move-in ready” feel make a big difference.
After each showing, we’ll collect honest feedback from buyers and their agents. Sometimes that feedback confirms we’ve nailed the presentation and price; other times it helps us fine-tune our approach.
Step 3: The Offer (or Maybe a Few!)
When offers start coming in, it’s easy to focus on price — but smart sellers know there’s more to it.
Things like financing strength, contingencies, and timelines can all affect how smoothly the deal moves forward. My job is to help you weigh every piece of the puzzle so you can make the best possible decision.
(Stay tuned — we’ll dig deeper into this in November’s blog series.)
Step 4: Under Contract to Closing
Once you’ve accepted an offer, the focus shifts to getting to the finish line. This stage includes inspections, appraisals, and final lender approvals — and I’ll be there every step of the way to keep things moving forward and avoid last-minute surprises.
Step 5: Moving Forward
Selling your home is more than a transaction — it’s a transition. Whether you’re moving up, downsizing, or relocating, every closing marks a new chapter.
Next month, we’ll walk through what happens after your home hits the market — from managing showings to comparing offers — and how a strong strategy keeps your sale on track.
If you’ve been thinking about selling, there’s still time to make a move before the end of the year. Let’s talk about your goals and create a plan that fits you.