Before we get started, let’s cover a bird's-eye view of the entire home-selling process. Use this quick summary for reference as you move through each step:

1. Make sure you’re ready to sell. Selling your house is hard work. Ask yourself if this is the right season of life to manage a complicated process that could last a month or two.  
    
2. Work with an experienced real estate agent. You want an agent who cares about your financial goals and offers guidance at every step of the home-selling process—like the RamseyTrusted agents in our Endorsed Local Providers (ELP) program.
    
3. Set the right price. Your agent should be able to gather local data to compare your home to recently sold homes that are similar to yours. This allows you to set a fair price from the start.
    
4. Stage your home. Consider getting a home inspection before listing to make sure everything is in tip-top shape. Declutter, depersonalize, and do whatever it takes to make your home feel fresh and new. This could help it sell faster and for more money.
    
5. Show your home. A great agent will get your home listed in places where active buyers will see it. Plus, they’ll help you manage home showings so you don’t miss a beat.
    
6. Choose the right offer. Work with your agent to make sure you don’t pick a dud offer. Remember, you can always negotiate the contract to reach a deal where everyone wins.
    
7. Tackle contingencies. These are conditions listed in a contract that must be met to finish a home sale. They could include things like the results of a home inspection or an appraisal and final mortgage approval.
    
8. Close the sale. As you wait for your buyer to finalize their financing (and to collect your check!), plan your move. For a moving and storage company you can trust—check out our friends at PODS.