Deciding if the time is right to sell your home can be overwhelming. Between the news, Zestimates, casual conversations and neighborhood chatter, there is a lot of information to process. Sadly, a fair amount of that information could be wrong.

If you are seriously considering selling your home, talk to a Realtor. Don’t just talk to any Realtor; believe it or not we are not all the same. Experience levels differ, approaches differ, levels of professionalism differ, etc. etc.

First and foremost, talk to a Realtor that sells in your area. Talk to a Realtor that has a proven track record. Talk to a Realtor you feel comfortable with – someone who you can connect with. Selling a home takes time from listing to closing. You want to work with someone you feel comfortable with and someone who is going to be honest with you.

Honesty is the best policy. Having an agent that is going to be honest with you in determining the value of your property and best list price is crucial. This will save you time and money in the long run.

When I meet with a potential seller, we discuss the value of the house, the costs to sell, the time anticipated to sell, and more importantly, the reasons for selling. Often times, the house is no longer a fit: too big, too small; too much upkeep; too far away from family, etc.

Once we’ve talked it all out, and I have explained the sale process, showing expectations and answered questions, if the numbers work and we are a fit, we move forward. If the numbers don’t work quite yet, and we are a fit, I will keep an eye on the market and keep the future sellers informed. No pressure. No obligation.

In life, timing plays a crucial role. Timing is important in sales as well, and when the time is right, it will happen.

There have been a number of times where sellers have been pleasantly surprised when I show them what their house is worth. There have been times when the opposite is true. The point is, if you don’t ask, you don’t know and if you are considering moving, asking the right real estate agent for guidance and facts can be most beneficial. A seller may find they are in a perfect position to move forward or a seller may find otherwise.

Either way, if you are curious about your home’s value and are ready to move out of a house that no longer fits your lifestyle, call an experienced, professional Realtor that will provide you the information necessary to make an educated decision. Selling a home is no small under taking. Having the proper tools, support, information and knowledge to aid in the process will help to ensure a smooth transaction, eliminate surprises and reduce stress levels along the way.