For most families, their home is their largest financial asset and investment, and deciding to sell it is a big decision that involves a lot of work and preparation. It's important to have an experienced real estate professional by your side when you decide to sell in order to ensure a successful sale of a home for top dollar.

I will get your home sold for top dollar and in a timely manner while providing you peace of mind at all time. My online and offline marketing systems will give you the edge you need to sell your home.

Before Your Home Is Listed:

It's important to have your home in good showing condition before buyers start going through it. Here are some steps to take:

1. Touch up interior and exterior paint as needed.

2. Install new carpeting and flooring if it appears worn or dated.

3. Make sure the front is clean and spruced up – curb appeal will create a favorable first impression.

4. Trim bushes and plants as needed, and make sure the lawn is kept mowed and trimmed. In autumn, rake the leaves; in winter, keep the snow shoveled.

5. Keep the interior clean, de-cluttered and odor-free. Eliminate evidence of pets.

6. Minimize personal items such as family photos. You want buyers to see themselves living in the home.

7. Consider putting excess furniture and belongings in storage. Now's the time to clean out the garage and basement and sell, give away or throw away items you don't need any longer.

8. Consider having a pre-listing inspection performed. Buyers will be hiring professional inspectors; here's your chance to address problems in advance.

9. Consider engaging a professional stager to give your home the right emotional appeal.

During the Listing Period:

1. When potential buyers visit your home, either be absent or make yourselves as inconspicuous as possible.

2. Have fresh flowers in the entryway. It makes for a friendly introduction into your home.

3. If offers are made that don't match your hoped-for price, don't reject them out of hand. Pay attention to your agent's advice.

4. Consider dropping the price if several months go by with few or no offers. But if you and your agent have priced your home properly from the start, this shouldn't be necessary.

5. Don't get discouraged. In buyer's markets, homes take longer to sell than during boom times. Your home will eventually sell; it's a matter of finding the right buyer for you.

Help Your Agent:

You have the best chance of selling your home if you work closely with your agent. Make sure all showings are coordinated through him or her. If you have a brochure box, be sure to keep it filled. If prospective buyers want to discuss your property or negotiate price or other terms, defer to your agent. He or she is the expert and can best handle all these details without emotion.