Next is the asking price. All homeowners believe their home is worth more than the actual fair market value. You have two options here. Option 1, you can call a Real Estate agent and have them give you an idea of Market Value. This is usually on the high end and is certainly a good place to start. Option 2, you can hire an appraiser who is certified and get the actual Fair Market Value. This is preferable since you can show the potential buyer the appraisal.

Advertising: Your local newspaper is your best bet, especially the Sunday edition. However instead of a simple classified ad, consider running a one column by 2 or 3 inches bordered display ad in the real estate section. A display ad stands out and is more effective. Also place your property on any local classified websites.

Showing your home: Be sure to put "By Appointment Only" on your Homes For Sale sign, otherwise you'll get unexpected walk up prospects ringing your doorbell. Set your appointments for the following day if possible so you can have time to straighten up a little. TIP: Always let the prospects enter each room before you do...too many people in a room makes it look smaller. Another Tip: Always talk in terms of painting a picture in the prospects mind...such as "We've really enjoyed the den at Christmas" or " "Many Thanksgiving dinners were enjoyed in this dinning room" or "The kids really enjoyed this back yard over the years". You get the idea...paint pictures.

Okay, so you have a buyer. A standard real estate earnest money contract will do nicely and accept no less than $1,000.00 at signing, then your local Title Company attorney can give you good legal advice and handle the closing for you for a fee.

In conclusion: Selling a home is not difficult if you do your homework in advance, so cover all your bases and all should go smoothly.