How to Successfully Sell Your Home in New York: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

Thinking About Selling Your Home? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Putting Your Property on the Market!

Selling a home is one of the biggest financial transactions you may experience. Whether you’re selling a single-family home in Queens, a two-family property in Brooklyn, a condominium in Manhattan, or a home on Long Island, understanding the selling process before getting started can make a significant difference.

You may be wondering:

• How much is my home worth?
• Should I renovate before selling?
• What repairs should I make?
• How do I prepare my home for showings?
• How do I choose the right asking price?
• What expenses will I have when selling?
• What happens after I receive an offer?
• How long does it take to close?

These are important questions, and having the right information from the beginning can help you avoid unnecessary stress, costly mistakes, and delays.

At SoldByNathalie, we believe that selling your home should be a well-planned process. Our goal is to help homeowners understand every step, make informed decisions, and position their property to attract qualified buyers.

Let’s walk through the process!

PART ONE: BEFORE YOU PUT YOUR HOME ON THE MARKET

STEP 1: DETERMINE WHY YOU ARE SELLING

Before thinking about listing prices, repairs, or marketing, take a moment to identify your reasons for selling.

Are you:

• Moving to a larger home?
• Downsizing?
• Relocating for work?
• Selling an inherited property?
• Looking to purchase another investment property?
• Moving out of New York?
• Selling because of a change in your financial or personal circumstances?

Understanding your timeline and goals will help your real estate agent develop a selling strategy that works for you.

For example, if you need to sell before purchasing another property, timing and negotiations may become especially important.

Helpful Tip: Be upfront with your real estate agent about your goals, ideal closing date, and any circumstances that could affect your sale.

STEP 2: FIND OUT WHAT YOUR HOME IS REALLY WORTH

One of the most important decisions you will make is determining the right asking price.

Many homeowners start by looking at what their neighbors are asking for their homes. However, an asking price does not necessarily represent what a property will actually sell for.

The best way to establish a realistic market value is through a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

What is a CMA?

A Comparative Market Analysis is a report prepared by a real estate professional that examines comparable properties in your area.

It generally considers:

• Recently sold properties.
• Currently active listings.
• Pending sales, when available.
• Properties that did not sell or were withdrawn.
• Square footage and property layout.
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
• Property condition and renovations.
• Lot size and location.
• Additional features such as parking, finished basements, and outdoor space.

Why is pricing so important?

Pricing your property too high can discourage potential buyers, reduce showing activity, and cause your listing to sit on the market longer.

Pricing too low without a clear strategy may mean leaving potential money on the table.

The goal is to establish a competitive asking price that reflects current market conditions and attracts serious buyers.

Remember: Your home is worth what a qualified buyer is willing to pay in the current market, not necessarily what you originally paid or what you have invested in renovations.

STEP 3: CHOOSE THE RIGHT REAL ESTATE AGENT

Choosing the right real estate professional is one of the most important decisions you will make when selling your property.

An experienced listing agent does much more than put a sign on your lawn and upload photographs to the MLS.

Your agent should understand the local market, develop a marketing strategy, communicate with potential buyers, coordinate showings, negotiate offers, and guide you through the transaction.

What should you look for in a listing agent?

• Experience selling properties similar to yours.
• Knowledge of your neighborhood and surrounding communities.
• Strong pricing and negotiation skills.
• Professional marketing and advertising.
• High-quality property photography.
• Knowledge of home staging and presentation.
• Communication and follow-up.
• Experience navigating New York real estate transactions.

Questions to ask before hiring an agent:

1. How many properties have you sold in my neighborhood?
2. How will you determine my home’s asking price?
3. What marketing strategies will you use?
4. Will you provide professional photography?
5. Do you offer home staging recommendations?
6. How will you communicate feedback after showings?
7. What is your strategy for negotiating multiple offers?
8. What expenses and fees should I expect?

Helpful Tip: Don’t choose an agent based solely on who suggests the highest asking price. Choose someone who can explain and support their pricing recommendation with market data and a realistic selling strategy.

STEP 4: PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR SALE

First impressions matter!

Buyers often begin forming an opinion about a property before they even walk through the front door.

A clean, well-maintained, inviting home can help buyers feel more comfortable and visualize themselves living there.

Before listing your property, walk through every room and look at your home from a buyer’s perspective.

Start with these important improvements:

Declutter

• Remove unnecessary furniture.
• Clear countertops and surfaces.
• Organize closets and storage areas.
• Remove personal photographs and excessive decorations.
• Keep hallways and walkways open.

Deep Clean

• Clean kitchens and bathrooms thoroughly.
• Wash windows.
• Clean carpets and floors.
• Dust light fixtures and ceiling fans.
• Remove odors from pets, cooking, and smoking.
• Keep the home fresh and inviting.

Make Minor Repairs

• Fix leaking faucets.
• Repair loose handles and door hardware.
• Replace burned-out light bulbs.
• Touch up chipped paint.
• Repair damaged trim.
• Address visible maintenance issues.

Improve Curb Appeal

• Maintain the lawn and landscaping.
• Trim bushes and trees.
• Clean the front entrance.
• Power wash where appropriate.
• Remove unnecessary outdoor items.
• Make sure the house number is visible.

Don’t overlook the little details!

Buyers notice more than you think. A dripping faucet, dirty windows, cluttered rooms, or an unpleasant smell can distract buyers from the property’s best features.

The objective is to make your home feel clean, bright, spacious, and well cared for.

STEP 5: STAGE YOUR HOME TO ATTRACT BUYERS

Professional home staging is an important part of preparing your property for the market.

Staging is the process of arranging furniture, accessories, lighting, and décor to showcase a property’s best features and help buyers envision themselves living there.

As an Accredited Staging Professional, I strongly believe that presentation matters when marketing a home.

Why should you consider staging?

• Helps buyers visualize how rooms can be used.
• Highlights the property’s layout and functionality.
• Creates a welcoming first impression.
• Makes photographs and online marketing more appealing.
• Helps emphasize the property’s strengths.
• Can make vacant or awkward spaces easier to understand.

What rooms should you prioritize?

1. Living room – Create a comfortable and inviting gathering space.
2. Kitchen – Keep counters clean and uncluttered.
3. Dining room – Showcase a functional dining area.
4. Primary bedroom – Create a relaxing, hotel-inspired atmosphere.
5. Bathrooms – Use fresh towels and clean, neutral accessories.
6. Entryway – Make the first impression count.

Vacant homes need staging too!

An empty room can sometimes make it difficult for buyers to understand the size, layout, and purpose of the space.

Furniture and accessories can help establish scale and demonstrate how the room can function.

Remember: You don’t necessarily need to purchase all new furniture. Sometimes rearranging what you already own, removing clutter, and adding a few carefully selected accessories can make a significant difference.

STEP 6: GATHER YOUR PROPERTY DOCUMENTS

Before listing your home, begin organizing the documents that may be needed during the sale.

Having everything prepared early can help avoid delays once you have a buyer.

Depending on your property, you may need:

• Current deed.
• Property tax information.
• Mortgage payoff information.
• Recent utility bills.
• Certificate of Occupancy (CO), if applicable.
• Permits for renovations or additions.
• Certificates of completion, if applicable.
• Survey, if available.
• Warranty information for appliances or systems.
• Information about leases or tenants.
• HOA or condominium documents, if applicable.
• Cooperative documents and financial information, if applicable.

What if you made improvements to your home?

If you renovated your kitchen, finished your basement, added a bathroom, or made structural changes, gather any related permits and approvals.

Unresolved permits, violations, or discrepancies between the property’s actual layout and municipal records may complicate a transaction.

Your real estate agent and attorney can help identify documents that should be reviewed before the property goes on the market.

STEP 7: UNDERSTAND YOUR LEGAL DISCLOSURE RESPONSIBILITIES

New York sellers should understand their disclosure obligations before accepting an offer.

For many sales of residential real property consisting of one- to four-family dwellings, the New York Property Condition Disclosure Act requires the seller to complete and deliver a Property Condition Disclosure Statement before the buyer signs a binding contract.

The form asks about matters such as:

• Known water and flooding issues.
• Roof and structural conditions.
• Plumbing and electrical systems.
• Heating and cooling.
• Environmental concerns.
• Known material defects.
• Other conditions affecting the property.

The statement is based on the seller’s actual knowledge. It is not a substitute for an independent inspection.

Important New York update: Since March 20, 2024, the former option to provide a $500 credit instead of completing the disclosure statement has been eliminated. Certain transfers are exempt, and condominiums and cooperative apartments are generally outside the one- to four-family dwelling definition covered by this particular disclosure law. Ask your attorney about the requirements that apply to your property.

Also, if your home was built before 1978, federal lead-based paint disclosure requirements may apply.

Helpful Tip: Be truthful and thorough when completing required disclosures. Never conceal known material issues. Your attorney should help you understand your legal obligations.

PART TWO: LISTING AND MARKETING YOUR HOME

STEP 8: DETERMINE YOUR ASKING PRICE AND LISTING STRATEGY

Once your property is prepared, your agent will help establish the asking price and launch strategy.

Your pricing decision should be based on market conditions, recent comparable sales, buyer demand, and the property’s condition.

What happens if you overprice?

• Fewer buyers may schedule showings.
• Your property may receive less online attention.
• Buyers may choose comparable homes instead.
• You may eventually need price reductions.
• Extended market time can create questions about the property’s value.

What happens if you price competitively?

• Your home may attract more qualified buyers.
• You may generate stronger showing activity.
• You may create opportunities for competitive offers.
• You can establish greater interest early in the listing period.

A well-planned pricing strategy is especially important during the first days and weeks your home is on the market.

STEP 9: MARKET YOUR HOME PROFESSIONALLY

Once your home is ready and the listing price is established, it’s time to introduce your property to the market.

Professional marketing helps your home stand out and reach potential buyers.

What should an effective marketing plan include?

Professional Photography

High-quality photographs help buyers understand the property’s layout, features, and overall condition.

Video and Virtual Tours

Video walkthroughs and virtual tours can help buyers explore the property before scheduling an appointment.

MLS Exposure

Your property should be marketed through the appropriate listing services and distribution channels.

Social Media Marketing

Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and other social channels can expand your property’s exposure.

Digital Advertising

Targeted digital marketing can help introduce your listing to potential buyers searching for properties in your area.

Print Marketing

Property flyers, postcards, and other professional marketing materials can support your overall campaign.

Open Houses

Open houses can provide buyers with an opportunity to tour your property and experience the space in person.

Remember:

Your online listing is often the first showing!

Buyers may decide whether they want to visit your home based on the photographs, property description, and information they see online.

Make sure your property is presented professionally from the very beginning.

STEP 10: PREPARE FOR SHOWINGS AND OPEN HOUSES

Once your property is active on the market, expect buyers and their agents to request appointments.

Your home should be ready to show whenever possible, subject to the agreed-upon showing arrangements.

Before each showing:

• Make beds and straighten bedding.
• Clear kitchen and bathroom countertops.
• Put away personal belongings.
• Remove trash.
• Secure valuables and medications.
• Turn on lights where appropriate.
• Open blinds and curtains to maximize natural light.
• Make sure the temperature is comfortable.
• Remove pets or arrange for them to be safely accommodated.

What about pets?

Not every buyer is comfortable around animals. If possible, arrange for pets to be out of the home during showings.

Should you stay during showings?

Generally, sellers should give buyers space to explore the property with their agent.

Allow your real estate professional to conduct the showing and answer questions. Buyers may feel more comfortable discussing the property openly when the homeowner is not present.

STEP 11: REVIEW BUYER FEEDBACK AND MONITOR MARKET ACTIVITY

Once showings begin, your agent should keep you informed about market activity.

Important things to monitor include:

• Number of showings.
• Buyer feedback.
• Requests for additional information.
• Open house attendance.
• Comparable properties entering the market.
• Competing properties going into contract.
• Changes in buyer demand.

What if buyers aren’t showing interest?

If your home receives very little activity, it may be time to review your marketing, presentation, or asking price.

If buyers consistently mention the same concern, take that feedback seriously.

Your agent should help you understand whether adjustments are necessary to improve your property’s position in the market.

PART THREE: OFFERS, NEGOTIATIONS AND CONTRACTS

STEP 12: REVIEW AND NEGOTIATE OFFERS

Receiving an offer is exciting, but the highest offer isn’t always the best offer.

When reviewing offers, consider the complete financial and contractual picture.

What should you review?

Purchase Price

How much is the buyer offering compared with your asking price and current market value?

Financing

Is the buyer obtaining conventional, FHA, VA, or another type of financing?

Pre-Approval

Has the buyer provided a mortgage pre-approval or other evidence of financing qualifications?

Down Payment

How much is the buyer planning to put down?

Contingencies

Does the offer include mortgage, inspection, appraisal, or other contingencies?

Closing Timeline

Does the proposed closing date work with your moving plans?

Deposit

What is the proposed contract deposit, and when will it be delivered?

What if you receive multiple offers?

Multiple offers can create an opportunity to negotiate stronger terms.

Your agent can help you compare the offers and communicate with interested buyers.

Consider the purchase price, financing strength, contingencies, deposit, and closing timeline rather than focusing only on the highest number.

Helpful Tip: A well-qualified buyer with realistic terms may be a stronger choice than a higher offer with significant uncertainties.

STEP 13: HIRE A REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY AND NEGOTIATE THE CONTRACT

Once you select an offer, the next step is moving toward a formal contract of sale.

In New York, attorneys generally play an important role in residential real estate transactions.

Your attorney will:

• Review and negotiate the contract.
• Address legal terms and contingencies.
• Coordinate with the buyer’s attorney.
• Review title-related matters.
• Help resolve legal or documentation issues.
• Prepare for the closing process.

The contract should clearly identify the purchase price, deposit, closing arrangements, contingencies, and other negotiated terms.

What is the contract deposit?

The contract deposit is money the buyer delivers according to the terms of the signed contract.

It is commonly held in escrow by the seller’s attorney or another designated escrow agent until closing or other disposition under the contract.

Important: Do not assume an accepted verbal offer means the property is officially sold. Follow your attorney’s guidance regarding the contract and when the transaction becomes binding.

PART FOUR: AFTER THE CONTRACT IS SIGNED

STEP 14: COOPERATE WITH THE BUYER’S MORTGAGE AND INSPECTION PROCESS

After the contract is signed, the buyer will continue working toward mortgage approval and completing the required steps under the contract.

The buyer may arrange:

• A home inspection.
• An appraisal.
• Additional lender-required evaluations.
• Title and legal reviews.
• Additional documentation requests.

What should the seller expect?

The buyer’s inspector may identify conditions that require further discussion.

The buyer’s lender may also require repairs, additional documentation, or clarification about certain property conditions.

Your agent and attorney can help you understand any requests and determine the appropriate response.

Not every inspection finding means the seller must make repairs. Your contractual obligations and any negotiated agreements will determine what is required.

STEP 15: CLEAR TITLE AND RESOLVE PROPERTY ISSUES

Before closing, the buyer’s attorney and title company will work to ensure the property can be transferred according to the contract.

This process may uncover issues that need attention.

Examples include:

• Outstanding mortgages.
• Home equity lines of credit.
• Unpaid property taxes.
• Municipal violations.
• Open permits.
• Judgments or liens.
• Ownership or deed discrepancies.
• Other title-related issues.

If you have an existing mortgage, your attorney will coordinate obtaining a payoff statement and arranging payment of the outstanding balance at closing.

Helpful Tip: If you know of any outstanding violations, unpaid taxes, or unresolved permits, discuss them with your attorney as early as possible.

STEP 16: UNDERSTAND YOUR SELLER CLOSING COSTS

One of the biggest questions homeowners ask is:

“How much money will I actually walk away with after selling my home?”

The answer depends on your sale price, mortgage balance, negotiated terms, and applicable expenses.

Potential seller expenses include:

• Real estate brokerage compensation, as agreed in your listing and other applicable agreements.
• New York State real estate transfer tax.
• New York City transfer tax, if applicable.
• Attorney fees.
• Mortgage payoff.
• Home equity line payoff.
• Outstanding property taxes or other municipal charges.
• Title-related expenses, depending on the transaction.
• Other negotiated closing expenses.

Important New York transfer tax information

New York State generally imposes a transfer tax of $2 per $500 of consideration, equivalent to 0.4%, subject to applicable rules and exemptions.

New York City also imposes its own real property transfer tax. For many residential transfers involving one- to three-family homes, individual condominium units, and cooperative apartments, the NYC rate is:

• 1% for consideration of $500,000 or less.
• 1.425% for consideration above $500,000.

Additional taxes may apply to higher-value transactions.

The mansion tax and certain additional transfer taxes are generally buyer obligations, subject to statutory rules and contractual arrangements.

Long Island sellers should also ask their attorney whether any regional transfer taxes or special assessments apply to their property.

Helpful Tip: Ask your real estate attorney for an estimated seller closing statement before accepting an offer so you have a clearer understanding of your anticipated net proceeds.

PART FIVE: CLOSING DAY AND HANDING OVER THE KEYS

STEP 17: PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR THE FINAL WALK-THROUGH

As closing approaches, begin preparing your home for the buyer’s final visit.

The buyer may complete a final walk-through to confirm that the property is in the condition required by the contract.

Before leaving:

• Remove personal belongings.
• Remove unwanted furniture and household items.
• Clean the property.
• Complete any agreed-upon repairs.
• Leave appliances and fixtures included in the sale.
• Organize keys, garage remotes, and access devices.
• Follow the agreed-upon possession and vacancy requirements.

Make sure you understand the exact date and time you must vacate the property.

STEP 18: CLOSING DAY – SELLING YOUR HOME!

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the final step.

Closing is when the buyer and seller complete the legal and financial requirements of the transaction.

Your attorney will coordinate with the buyer’s attorney, title company, and other parties to finalize the sale.

During closing:

• Required documents are reviewed and signed.
• The buyer’s funds are delivered.
• Your existing mortgage and applicable liens are paid.
• Applicable transfer taxes and closing expenses are handled.
• The deed and other required documents are transferred and recorded.
• Your remaining sale proceeds are distributed according to the closing statement.

Once the transaction is completed, ownership transfers to the buyer.

You’ve officially sold your home!

BONUS: 10 COMMON MISTAKES HOME SELLERS SHOULD AVOID

1. Overpricing the Property: An unrealistic asking price can discourage buyers and lead to unnecessary time on the market.
2. Ignoring Necessary Repairs: Visible maintenance problems can make buyers question the overall condition of the home.
3. Skipping Home Staging: Poor presentation can make it harder for buyers to connect with the property.
4. Using Poor-Quality Photographs: Your online presentation is one of the most important parts of your marketing strategy.
5. Being Unavailable for Showings: Limited showing availability can reduce opportunities to reach qualified buyers.
6. Taking Feedback Personally: Buyer feedback can help identify improvements that may make your home more appealing.
7. Choosing an Offer Based Only on Price: Financing, contingencies, and closing terms matter too.
8. Hiding Known Property Issues: Be truthful and comply with your disclosure obligations.
9. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Gather Documents: Missing permits, title issues, or financial records can create delays.
10. Not Understanding Your Closing Costs: Know your anticipated expenses and estimated net proceeds before committing to a sale.

SELLER CHECKLIST: ARE YOU READY TO LIST YOUR HOME?

Before putting your property on the market, make sure you have considered the following:

☐ Determine your selling goals and timeline.

☐ Request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

☐ Interview and select a real estate agent.

☐ Review your expected selling expenses.

☐ Identify necessary repairs and improvements.

☐ Declutter and deep clean your home.

☐ Consider professional home staging.

☐ Gather your property documents and permits.

☐ Discuss required property disclosures with your attorney.

☐ Establish your asking price and marketing strategy.

☐ Prepare for professional photography.

☐ Make arrangements for showings and open houses.

☐ Review offers and negotiate the best terms.

☐ Hire an attorney and review the contract.

☐ Coordinate with the buyer’s inspection and mortgage process.

☐ Resolve title and payoff issues.

☐ Prepare for the final walk-through and closing.

THINKING ABOUT SELLING YOUR HOME IN NEW YORK?

MORE THAN JUST LISTING YOUR PROPERTY. IT’S ABOUT GETTING RESULTS!

Selling your home is a major financial decision, and you deserve professional guidance throughout the entire process.

From determining the right asking price and preparing your property for the market to professional staging, strategic marketing, offer negotiations, and closing coordination, having the right real estate professional by your side can make all the difference.

At SoldByNathalie, we understand that every property and every homeowner has different goals.

Whether you’re selling a single-family home, two-family property, condominium, cooperative, or investment property, we are here to help you navigate the process with confidence.

LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR HOME’S VALUE!

Are you curious about what your property could sell for in today’s market?

Let’s start with a conversation and a personalized market analysis.

CONTACT NATHALIE JEREZ

SoldByNathalie | ERA Top Service Realty

NY Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
Seller Representative Specialist (SRS)
Accredited Staging Professional (ASP-RE)
Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR)

Serving Queens • Brooklyn • Long Island • Manhattan

Phone: 347-417-0646
Email: SoldByNathalie@gmail.com
Website: www.SoldByNathalie.com
Instagram: @SoldByNathalie

More Than Signs… Real Results!

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial, or investment advice. Seller disclosure obligations, transfer taxes, closing costs, and contractual requirements vary depending on the property and location. Consult a qualified New York real estate attorney and appropriate tax and financial professionals regarding your specific transaction.