“As real estate agent and team leader, I often asked about the process of buying, selling, investing, and growing a career in real estate. So, we’ve created the Wardman Insight Discovery Series to provide clear, actionable answers. In this video, we’ll break down six frequently asked questions into two categories: one for real estate clients and one for real estate agents.” ~ Evan Johnson, Wardman Team Leader

Question 2 of 6:

“I want to sell my house. What’s the process like?”

1. Who is Wardman Residential at Compass

• Core Values & Team Approach: The guide highlights the core values of the team, such as trustworthiness, integrity, being organized and prepared, fostering individual growth, and maintaining a client-centric focus​. Wardman Residential aims to provide a streamlined and personalized approach, making the process of selling a home as stress free as possible

• Team Expertise: The team, with over 100 years of combined experience, supports sellers, buyers, investors, and developers across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia areas. The guide emphasizes local expertise, professionalism, and a commitment to consistent communication throughout the home-selling journey.

  
  
  
  

2. Seller’s Process Overview

• Role of the Agent: Wardman agents follow core values in every step of the home-selling process, from the initial preview of the property to the final closing. The document outlines that the agent helps with positioning the property, creating a pricing strategy, marketing, and handling all details and paperwork.

• Preparation for First Meeting: Sellers are advised to have mortgage payoff information, utility company details, and any home upgrades prepared for the first meeting with their Wardman Residential agent.

  
  
  
  

3. Timeline and Strategy

• Transaction Timeline: The process is divided into phases, starting from the preparation of the home, marketing, negotiation, closing, and post-closing. This includes guidance on pre-market strategies like Compass Coming Soon or Private Exclusive to reduce visible days on the market while opening up the home to serious buyers.

• Marketing and Positioning: Marketing is an essential part of Wardman Residential’s strategy. The guide discusses various marketing tools, including print and digital advertising, open houses, broker events, and social media promotions. A significant focus is placed on creating a custom marketing timeline tailored to each property​.

  
  
  
  

4. Home Preparation

• Key Areas to Focus On: To attract buyers, the guide advises sellers to focus on the kitchen, bathrooms, curb appeal, owner’s suite, and family rooms. Professional staging, photography, and repairs are strongly encouraged to ensure a home is presented in its best light​. We will help analyze the cost versus reward for repairs and upgrades to help get top dollar for your property.

• Pre-Market Considerations: The guide explains the importance of strategic pricing, noting that homes priced appropriately receive the most attention within the first seven days. Overpricing can extend the time on the market and reduce buyer interest​.

  
  
  
  

5. Contracts, Contingencies, and Closing

• Handling Offers & Contracts: The guide provides an overview of the offer and contract process, explaining that the closing typically happens within 30–45 days after contract. It discusses common contingencies, including home inspection, financing, appraisal, and home sale contingencies, and how Wardman Residential manages these complexities.

• Final Walkthrough and Settlement: Before closing, a final walkthrough is typically conducted to ensure the property is in the agreed-upon condition. The guide also describes typical seller settlement costs, such as attorney fees, broker compensation, and prorated taxes​/other items.

  
  
  
  

6. FAQs and Reviews

• Frequently Asked Questions: Common questions are answered, such as how much to disclose about the home’s condition, whether to redecorate or stage the home, and the importance of pricing. The guide stresses the importance of consulting a local real estate expert rather than relying on third-party websites for home valuation.

• Client Reviews: The document includes a section with glowing testimonials from past clients, reinforcing Wardman Residential’s reputation for trustworthiness and expertise in the D.C. market. Read Reviews Here

The Wardman Residential Seller’s Guide is a well-rounded resource that covers all aspects of the home-selling process. It emphasizes the importance of strategic pricing, comprehensive marketing, and having an experienced team handle every detail. The guide aims to reduce stress for sellers by providing a clear, step-by-step approach and offering the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of real estate transactions.