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Selling

Home seller's roadmap.

A clear, step-by-step roadmap for selling a home in Seattle, Bellevue, or the Eastside — pricing strategy, pre-list prep, marketing rollout, offer evaluation, inspection negotiation, and close. Step 2 includes the full prelisting seller inspection checklist RexMont agents use with every listing.

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Step 1

Price it right

Your first price is your best price. RexMont agents bring live MLS comps and current absorption data to the listing conversation — not a flattering number to win the listing, followed by reductions once the market disagrees. Start with an honest, defensible value range built from your specific pocket of the market, not a citywide average.

Step 2

Prepare your home — the full prelisting inspection checklist

Buyers notice the details. Completing the items below helps you avoid last-minute surprises during the buyer’s inspection, reduces objections, and positions your home for a smoother, more profitable sale. A well-prepared home doesn’t just sell — it makes a lasting first impression.

Focus areas

Safety & systems · Structural integrity · Cleanliness & appeal · Documents & disclosures

Roof, gutters & attic

Inspect roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles
Check flashing around chimneys, vents & skylights
Clean gutters and downspouts; ensure proper drainage
Look for water stains or leaks in the attic
Ensure attic is well-ventilated and insulated
Verify chimney is clean and in good condition

Exterior, foundation & landscaping

Inspect siding, trim, and paint; touch up or repair as needed
Check windows and screens for damage
Inspect decks, railings, fences, and stairs for safety
Ensure grading directs water away from foundation
Look for cracks in foundation or exterior walls
Keep landscaping trimmed and well-maintained
Ensure outdoor lighting is functional

Plumbing & water systems

Check for leaks under sinks, at toilets, and around fixtures
Ensure water pressure is strong and consistent
Inspect exposed pipes for corrosion or leaks
Flush water heater; check age and condition
Verify sump pump is working (if applicable)
For septic systems: pump and inspect if due

Electrical system

Test all outlets, switches, and GFCI outlets
Ensure panel is labeled and accessible
Check for loose wiring, damaged outlets, or exposed wires
Verify smoke detectors and CO detectors are working
Replace burned-out bulbs and update fixtures as needed
Consider having the electrical system inspected if outdated

Heating, cooling & ventilation

Change HVAC filters
Have HVAC system serviced if needed
Check for unusual noises or odors
Ensure all vents are clean and unobstructed
Test thermostat for accuracy
Ensure dryer vent is clean and properly vented

Interior: walls, floors & ceilings

Patch holes, cracks & nail pops in walls and ceilings
Repaint with neutral, light colors
Check for water stains or ceiling damage
Tighten loose handrails and stair components
Ensure doors open/close properly; fix squeaks
Clean or refinish flooring; repair damaged areas

Kitchen & laundry

Test all appliances; ensure they operate properly
Clean inside and outside of appliances
Check for water leaks under sink and dishwasher
Inspect cabinet doors and drawers; tighten hardware
Ensure countertops and backsplash are clean and intact
Clean dryer vent and test washer hookups

Bathrooms

Check for leaks around toilets, tubs, and sinks
Re-caulk tubs, showers, and sink areas
Ensure all faucets, drains, and fans work properly
Replace worn grout or damaged tiles
Check for water stains or soft spots in floors/walls
Clean mirrors, glass, and all fixtures

Records, permits & disclosures

Gather warranties, manuals, and service records
Provide permits for major work (electrical, plumbing, additions, etc.)
Prepare completed disclosure forms
Review HOA documents, if applicable
Have a property survey available, if possible

Final 7-day checklist

The week before your listing photos are shot.

Deep clean the entire home
Touch up paint and trim
Replace light bulbs and batteries
Declutter closets, counters & storage areas
Remove personal items and excess decor
Mow lawn, edge, and tidy landscaping
Ensure entryway is clean and welcoming

Seller action plan

  1. 1

    Prepare

    Inspect your home using this checklist and identify items that need attention before anyone else sees them.
  2. 2

    Repair

    Complete necessary repairs and upkeep to prevent issues from surfacing during the buyer's inspection.
  3. 3

    Present

    Showcase a clean, well-maintained home that buyers will love — a prepared home sells faster and for top dollar.

Step 3

Market it

Once your home is prepped, the 5-Star Listing Edge launch sequence takes over: professional photography, video walkthroughs, MLS optimization, and a 14-day rollout designed to concentrate buyer attention in the window when most competitive offers arrive.

Step 4

Field & negotiate offers

When demand is strong, how you structure the offer review matters as much as the number of offers. RexMont manages the review process — timing, terms, contingencies, and escalation — to produce the best net outcome, not just the highest headline price.

Step 5

Manage the buyer's inspection

The checklist in Step 2 is your own prelisting prep — the buyer will still order their own professional inspection after mutual acceptance. Because you’ve already addressed the items above, repair requests are typically smaller and easier to negotiate. Your agent and RexMont’s concierge team handle the repair request review and contractor coordination so you’re not nickel-and-dimed at the finish line.

Step 6

Close

Final walkthrough, signing, and funding — coordinated with escrow and title so there are no surprises at the table. RexMont also supports Sell Now, Move Later options if you need to lock in your sale before finding your next home.

This roadmap and checklist are provided as a general guide only and are not a substitute for a professional home inspection. RexMont recommends sellers obtain a pre-listing home inspection to identify any issues not visible during a visual walkthrough. Always consult licensed professionals for repairs, inspections, or evaluations.

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