If you've never sold a house before, navigating the real estate process as a seller will be a new experience. There are laws and regulations to consider, and language and lingo to make sense of—all of which can lead to a lot of questions. Here’s some important information to help you stay informed at every step of the sale.

What You Should Know About Selling a Home

When should I sell my house?

There's no definitive answer to this question since everyone's situation will be different. Those who need to sell quickly—like for a job relocation or a family emergency—shouldn't hesitate to list their homes for sale; there are always people looking to buy. But when possible, it can be more financially beneficial to wait until the local real estate scene is a seller's market. This means that there are more buyers than houses available. If you're unsure of the climate of the real estate industry in your community, consult a realtor or attorney.

Do I need to hire an attorney to sell a house?

In New York State, it’s customary to hire an attorney when selling a home. A lawyer will draft and review the documents necessary for the sale, ensuring they are legally sound.

Among their other duties, they also oversee the financial aspects of the transaction. They’ll clear up any title issues that need to be resolved, and, at closing, they represent you and walk you through the signing of all paperwork.

What do I need to do before listing my house for sale?

First, you should schedule a home inspection. The buyer will arrange for one too, but it can be helpful to have your own. This way, you can address any repair issues and determine a fair asking price for the property.

How much is my house worth?

There are a few ways to get an idea of what your home is worth. Your real estate agent will have information about median home prices in your neighborhood, as will popular listing websites. You can also hire a professional appraiser to get a more exact figure.

When you're ready to hire an attorney for your home sale, contact John E. Bach, Attorney at Law in Goshen, NY. For over 30 years, he has been serving clients throughout Orange County. He offers representation in real estate transactions, wills and estate planning, and family law cases. Call (845) 294-7941 or visit his website to schedule a consultation.