How to Sell Your House: Proceeds vs. Speed

How to sell your house for the highest proceeds

To maximize your home’s sale price, you’ll want to partner with a top real estate agent who has a high sale-to-list ratio. In other words, they have a proven track record for getting their clients a sale price that’s at — or higher than — the home’s original list price.

Experienced agents possess in-depth knowledge of the local market and what buyers are looking for when they approach and enter a home. They know what strategies will enhance your property’s overall appeal from the moment a potential buyer sees your listing. These include:

• Pricing your home accurately: An agent will conduct a comparative market analysis (CMA) to set a competitive list price that attracts buyers while ensuring you receive top dollar.
• Enhancing curb appeal: First impressions matter. Simple curb appeal improvements like fresh paint, landscaping, and minor repairs can significantly boost your home’s attractiveness and selling price.
• Professional staging and photography: Presenting your home in the best light through staging and high-quality photos can make a big difference in attracting potential buyers.
• Effective marketing: Agents have access to multiple listing services (MLS) and marketing channels to reach a broad audience, increasing the chances of receiving higher offers — and possibly starting a bidding war.

To find a top-rated local agent, try HomeLight’s Agent Match platform. This free tool will connect you with the highest-performing agents in your market. Our data shows that the top 5% of agents in the country sell homes faster and for as much as 10% more than average agents.

To get started, answer a few questions about your home and your selling plans. You can request a free consultation and learn more about what your home might sell for in the current market.

How to sell your house for the fastest closing

If your priority is a fast and hassle-free sale, selling to a house-buying company for an all-cash offer is a viable option. These companies specialize in purchasing homes swiftly, often in as-is condition. The basic process typically involves:

• Requesting an offer: Contact a reputable We Buy Houses company and provide details about your property.
• Receiving a cash offer: The company will assess your home and present a no-obligation cash offer, usually within 24 to 48 hours.
• Closing the deal: If you accept the offer, the closing process can often be completed in a matter of days or weeks, allowing you to access funds quickly.

While the offer price will typically be below market value, the speed and convenience of this method might be the solution you need, especially if you’re facing a pressing financial deadline or stressful time constraints.

For sellers facing these situations, the convenience of a quick cash offer often can’t be beat. Or you might be in a situation where you would just prefer to avoid the drawn-out traditional selling process, such as selling an inherited property.

To make a cash offer even easier to explore, try HomeLight’s Simple Sale platform. With Simple Sale, you’ll be connected to the largest network of trusted cash buyers in the country. You can receive a no-obligation, all-cash offer in 24 hours, and close in as few as 10 days. You can also compare your offer with what a top agent might be able to get for your home.

For a Simple Sale offer, complete this brief questionnaire to tell us a little about your property and selling timeline.

Steps to sell a house with an agent

Selling your house with a real estate agent involves a time-tested process designed to maximize your property’s market potential. Here’s a general step-by-step guide:

1. Select a qualified agent: Research and interview multiple agents to find one with a successful track record in your area. Look for traits such as strong communication skills, relevant selling experience, and a stellar reputation.

2. Set the listing price: Your agent will conduct a comparative market analysis to determine a competitive price that fits with current market trends.

3. Prepare your home: Your agent will also share ways to enhance your home’s appeal by decluttering, deep cleaning, and making necessary repairs. A good agent can also tell you what you don’t need to fix. Consider staging to showcase your home’s best features.

4. Market the property: The agent will list your home on multiple platforms, arrange professional photography, and schedule open houses to attract potential buyers.

5. Negotiate offers: Once offers are received, your agent will help you evaluate them, negotiate terms, and select the most favorable one.

6. Close the sale: After accepting an offer, the agent will guide you through the closing process, including inspections, appraisals, and final paperwork, ensuring a smooth transaction.

Steps to sell a house fast for cash

If speed is your priority, selling to a cash buyer can expedite the process. Here is a closer look at the steps you can expect:

1. Determine your home’s value: Before seeking offers, understand your property’s market value to assess the fairness of cash offers.

2. Find reputable cash buyers: Research and identify legitimate cash buyers or investment companies with positive reviews and a history of fair dealings. HomeLight’s Simple Sale can streamline your search.

3. Request and compare offers: Review offers from multiple buyers and compare terms. Select the best option that fits your needs.

4. Complete a home assessment: Although cash sales usually involve properties sold “as is,” most cash buyers will visit the home for an assessment. Some may even request a traditional home inspection. If you received an initial online or over-the-phone quote, the offer price may change after the on-site assessment.

5. Verify proof of funds: No matter which company or investor you choose, be certain to confirm that they have the necessary funds by requesting official documentation. You want to be confident in their ability to complete the purchase.

6. Close the deal: Once all conditions are met, proceed to closing, where you’ll sign the necessary documents and receive payment, often within a week to 10 days.

Benefits of selling with a real estate agent

Partnering with a real estate agent offers several advantages:

• Expertise in pricing: Agents provide accurate market analyses to price your home competitively.
• Comprehensive marketing: Agents have access to multiple listing services (MLS) and marketing channels to reach a broad audience.
• Negotiation skills: Experienced agents can negotiate effectively to secure the best terms and selling price.
• Transaction management: Agents handle the complex paperwork and processes involved in selling a home, ensuring compliance with legal requirements such as seller disclosures.

Benefits of selling to a house-buying company

Opting for a house-buying company provides distinct advantages:

• Speedy transactions: Cash sales can close in as little as a week, providing quick access to funds.
• Convenience: Selling “as is” eliminates the need for repairs or staging, simplifying the process.
• Certainty: Cash offers reduce the risk of deals falling through due to financing issues.
• Possible reduced costs: Avoiding agent commissions, repairs, and closing costs may result in financial savings. You might also find additional savings from being able to move to your new home sooner.

Pitfalls to avoid when selling with an agent

As we’ve pointed out, selling your home through a real estate agent can come with many benefits, but it’s important to steer clear of common missteps:

• Overpricing your home: Setting an unrealistic price can deter potential buyers and prolong the selling process. Work with your agent to establish a competitive price based on market analysis and their insights about buyer behaviors.
• Neglecting necessary repairs and staging: Failing to address visible issues or present your home appealingly can reduce buyer interest. Invest time in repairs, decluttering, and staging to enhance your home’s attractiveness.
• Using an experienced agent: A part-time, discount, or inexperienced agent may provide inadequate marketing efforts. This can limit your home’s exposure. Your agent should employ a comprehensive marketing strategy. Watch for signs of a bad agent.
• Poor communication with your agent: Lack of clear communication can lead to misunderstandings and missed opportunities. Maintain regular contact with your agent. A good agent will make certain you stay well informed throughout the process.

Pitfalls to avoid when selling to a house-buying company

Opting for a quick cash sale can be convenient, but be mindful of these potential pitfalls:

• Not researching the buyer: Engaging with an unverified or unscrupulous buyer can lead to unfavorable outcomes. Investigate the company’s reputation, read reviews, and confirm its legitimacy before proceeding.
• Accepting a lowball offer without question: While cash offers are typically lower than market value, don’t settle for an unreasonably low price. Understand your home’s worth and be prepared to negotiate or seek alternative offers. You can get a ballpark idea using HomeLight’s Home Value Estimator.
• Overlooking contract details: Failing to thoroughly review the terms can result in unexpected costs or unfavorable conditions. Carefully examine all contract aspects, including fees and closing timelines, and consult a legal professional if needed.
• Not disclosing major property issues: Depending on your situation, withholding information about certain defects can lead to legal complications. Be transparent about your home’s condition to avoid future disputes.

Ready to sell your house? HomeLight can help

As you research how to sell your house, HomeLight is here to provide solutions, options, and free tools. Our vision is a world where every home sale or purchase is simple, certain, and satisfying. Our innovative platforms and programs can help you achieve higher proceeds or a fast and convenient sale.

• Find a top real estate agent: Connect with experienced agents in your area who can guide you through the selling process and help you get the best possible outcome — in both speed and proceeds.
• Explore Simple Sale for a cash offer: If you’re seeking a swift, hassle-free transaction, HomeLight’s Simple Sale platform provides cash offers for homes in almost any condition, allowing you to close on your timeline. You can also receive an estimate of what a top agent might be able to get for your home so you can compare before you commit.
• Leverage our Buy Before You Sell program: Make a strong offer on your next home with no home sale contingency. Then move into your new home now — and sell your current home with peace of mind.

More home-seller resources from HomeLight:

• Home Value Estimator
• Best time to Sell Calculator
• Agent Commissions Calculator
• Net Proceeds Calculator
• Recently sold homes map

Header Image Source: (John Vanderlinde/ Unsplash)