Selling in Washington

Before you list your property

Gather the property records, review its condition, and compare recent sales. Discuss your timing and any work you plan to complete before listing.

1. Build the property file. Gather the deed, available survey, tax bills, permits, warranties, major-repair records, leases, and HOA or condominium information where applicable.
2. List changes and unresolved issues. Note additions, system replacements, known defects, uncompleted work, and questions about permits or approvals. Ask which disclosures and professional reviews apply.
3. Walk through condition first. Separate safety or function concerns from cosmetic improvements. Get written quotes for work under consideration before assuming it will raise the sale proceeds.
4. Review local evidence. Ask how recent comparable properties differ in location, condition, size, land, rights, and transaction circumstances. Asking prices and closed sale prices answer different questions.
5. Set a practical schedule. Consider document gathering, repairs, photography, showings, occupancy, and your next move. Discuss access arrangements and what must happen before going public.
6. Review estimated proceeds. Use current payoff information and editable estimates for applicable taxes, legal and settlement costs, negotiated brokerage compensation, repairs, concessions, and moving costs.
7. Agree on the marketing facts. Verify the description, measurements, included items, photographs, and display permissions. Identify restrictions or sensitive details that need careful handling.
8. Plan to reassess. Agree on how showing feedback, competing properties, and new sale evidence will inform the pricing conversation. Keep changes and authorizations documented.

A property-specific pricing review considers available evidence and your circumstances. It is not an instant valuation or a formal appraisal.