Working with an agent means signing a contract that gives the agent exclusive representation of the property for an agreed period, typically 60 to 90 days. During that time, the agent researches market activity to determine value, works with you to set a price, and once an offer is accepted, manages the paperwork through to completion.
Working With an Agent
Selling your home begins with signing a Listing Agreement that authorizes your agent and brokerage to market the property for an agreed period, often 90 to 180 days. During that time, your advisor analyzes comparable sales and current market activity, works with you to establish a pricing strategy, and guides the entire process from marketing through negotiation and completion.
Preparing Your Home for Sale
Your home is filled with memories, but when it comes time to sell, it’s important to see it through the eyes of a buyer. Small improvements, such as minor repairs, decluttering, and refreshing key spaces, can significantly influence how a property is perceived. Creating a clean, neutral, and welcoming environment helps buyers focus on the home itself and can help maximize interest and value.
Evaluating the Home
Determining the right price involves evaluating your home’s features, location, improvements, and current market conditions. Comparable sales and recent market activity provide important context, helping establish a pricing strategy that reflects the property’s value while positioning it competitively.
Marketing Your Home
Maximum exposure is essential. A thoughtful marketing strategy ensures your property reaches qualified buyers locally, nationally, and internationally through a combination of digital promotion, targeted outreach, and traditional advertising.
Hosting an Open House
Open houses can be an effective way to introduce your property to potential buyers. Careful planning helps ensure the home is presented at its best and attracts the right audience
Receiving and Reviewing the Offer
When a buyer submits an offer, it is presented through a Contract of Purchase and Sale outlining the proposed price, terms, and inclusions such as appliances or fixtures. Buyers typically provide a deposit and include conditions known in British Columbia as subjects, which may include financing approval, a home inspection, or the sale of another property. Each offer should be reviewed carefully to determine how it aligns with your priorities and goals. Offers may be accepted, rejected, or countered as negotiations progress.
Making the Counter Offer
Counter offers allow the buyer and seller to negotiate price and terms until an agreement is reached. Once both parties accept the terms and the buyer removes all subjects, the contract becomes firm and legally binding.
Final steps to agree upon include:
- Completion date
- Subject removal date
- Possession date
- Deposit amount and timing
- Included or excluded items
After the Contract is Signed
Once the contract becomes firm, both parties work toward completion. The buyer finalizes financing and other requirements, while the seller prepares the property for possession. Lawyers or notaries coordinate the legal documentation, transfer of funds, and registration of title.
Completion
Completion is when ownership officially transfers from seller to buyer. On the completion date, funds are transferred and the title is registered in the buyer’s name by the lawyers or notaries involved in the transaction. On the possession date, the buyer receives the keys and can move into the property.
Selling with Confidence
Selling a home involves careful preparation, strategic marketing, and experienced negotiation. Richard James Deacon works closely with clients to guide every step of the process with discretion, global reach, and a commitment to exceptional results. If you are considering selling your home in Kelowna or the Okanagan, Richard would be pleased to provide advice and discuss your goals.
Richard James Deacon
Engel & Völkers Okanagan
richard.deacon@evrealestate.com