Sellers Checklist

While buyers get to take their pick from dozens of Laguna Beach homes, sellers have to compete with several others to attract just a few buyers. That's why you need an agent to help you sell your Laguna Beach property, especially in this market. But more than that, you need to plan out the sale, from the day you decide to sell to all the way to the closing date.

Your LagunaOC.com agent can help you draw up a timeline for your sale to help you stay on track. The process can vary from one home to another, but here's a quick checklist of things you'll need at every step.

Preparing the Paperwork

Most Laguna Beach real estate agents will need basic documents relating to your property before they can start working with you. Before calling an agent, make sure you have the following:

• Mortgage payoff letter. You may need to pay off your current mortgage in order to reduce penalties in interest. This letter will inform your lender that you plan to make the final payments.
• Lender appraisal. Buyers will want to see that your home can be used to secure their own mortgage. The lender appraisal shows that your lender has previously accepted it as collateral. You may not need it until you accept an offer, but having it in advance can save you some time.
• Tax records. This shows that you have been paying property taxes for the time you have occupied the home. It helps back up the title search and provides a general idea of the home's value over the years.
• Local bills. Gather your bills for utilities such as gas, water, electricity and phone service. If you're part of a homeowner's association, provide proof of membership such as monthly receipts.
• Additional documents. Look for any other papers relating to your property: location surveys, floor plans, area maps, legal descriptions, insurance and warranties. The more information you can provide about your home, the more secure buyers feel about doing business with you.

Checking Your Home

Any flaws in your home can be counted against its market value, or turn away potential buyers. Most buyers will conduct a professional home inspection to make sure your home meets Laguna Beach real estate standards. Before the walk-through, be sure to:

• Look up regulations for electrical wiring and plumbing for Laguna Beach homes.
• Inspect major systems, or have them professionally checked, to make sure they comply.
• Check the sub-floor, basement and main foundation for structural faults.
• Have a look at the roof coverings, shingles, and ceiling boards, and other roof structures.
• Make sure the heating and air conditioning systems are fully functional.

Write down any flaws you see and either fix them yourself or schedule a repair day. This will save both you and your buyer a lot of time negotiating the expenses, and you can increase your home's selling price.

Preparing and Showing Your Home

First impressions play a big role in selling Laguna Beach real estate. Look around your neighborhood to see how your home looks against others in your street. Take steps to improve your home's curb appeal, such as:

• pruning trees and shrubs, pulling out weeds, and edging the lawn
• touching up the paint and caulking on exterior walls, window panes, and door frames
• cleaning up the driveway and repairing any cracks or bumps
• cleaning the fireplace and chimneys
• replacing old parts such as knobs, handles, locks and grates
• replacing damaged structures such as door screens and railings